Wicomico County Board of Education

Honorees from the WCBOE Awards & Recognitions Night Nov. 17

Wicomico County Board of Education — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 09:16:55 -0500

Congratulations to all of the students, teachers, schools and community partners honored during the first Board of Education Awards & Recognitions Night of the 2009-10 school year. The event was held Tuesday, Nov. 17, at Willards Elementary School. Lacrosse Donation In 1993, a grassroots community group approached the Board of Education about changing lacrosse from a club sport to a varsity sport. Challenged by the Board to raise enough money to fund the lacrosse coaches, uniforms, equipment, buses and other expenses for the first year of varsity competition, the community group rose to the challenge. The group members – Bill Kenton, then the general manager of WBOC, Stu Barr, and Rob Sartorio – raised more than $70,000. Lacrosse became a varsity sport in the spring of 1995. When the community group was working to have lacrosse made a varsity sport, the group also pledged to pay for equipment for the first five years. Having kept that pledge, the community group closed out the lacrosse account by donating the $3,079.05 remaining in the fund to the Board of Education of Wicomico County. This donation is being made in memory of Bill Kenton, and the founders’ group is represented here tonight by his widow, Phyllis Kenton, Mr. Barr and Mr. Sartorio. It is the wish of the donors that the money be divided equally among the six teams engaged in varsity lacrosse: the boys and girls teams from Parkside High School, Wicomico High School and James M. Bennett High School. 2009-10 Values Calendar Artists The Values Calendar published each year by the Wicomico County Public Schools reflects the 10 values that have been identified as important to our students, our schools and our community. Each year, students submit artwork depicting one of the values, and the superintendent picks the illustrations for the calendar. The creative and insightful work of our students is printed in 20,000 calendars that are distributed to families, staff and others interested in the school system. Etch-Art, a supporter of the Values Calendar for many years, has provided a plaque with each student’s calendar page. The 2009-10 Values Calendar artists are: Cover: Caitlin Bishop, senior, James M. Bennett High School September/Responsibility: Grace Lipinski, junior, James M. Bennett High School October/Courtesy: Labryant Dorman, senior, James M. Bennett High School November/Loyalty: Kyle Barker, junior, James M. Bennett High School December/Responsible Citizenship: Jalonzo Bateman, 2009 graduate of James M. Bennett High School January/Tolerance: Nicole LaPlante, senior, Parkside High School February/Compassion: Kira Kim, 8th grader at Bennett Middle when she submitted the illustration, now a freshman at James M. Bennett High School March/Honesty: Amanda Digby, 7th grader at Wicomico Middle School April/Self-Respect: Andrew Mason, 2009 graduate of Parkside High School May/Respect for Others’ Rights: Rachel Lukasz, junior, James M. Bennett High School June/Freedom of Thought & Action: Kimmy Hildreth, 8th grader at Bennett Middle School when she submitted the illustration, now a freshman at Parkside High School 2009 Vernon Powell/WMDT Summer Reading Challenge Winners Students all over Delmarva were invited to participate in the Vernon Powell/WMDT Summer Reading Challenge. Students were required to read at least 10 books to enter. The three readers with the highest book total received $50 gift cards. Additional winners were chosen at random from among all the other entries to receive $25 gift cards. These Wicomico students won $25 gift cards: Noah Jackson, first grade, Delmar Elementary School. 10 books Kieran Murphy, seventh grade, Bennett Middle School, 30 books Delaney Deinlein, Kindergarten, Willards Elementary School, 160 Books Tobacco Prevention Poster Contest The Tobacco Prevention Poster Contest brings together Wicomico student artists and the Wicomico County Health Department’s CRF Tobacco Program to spread the message of staying away from tobacco and sticking to healthy lifestyle choices. The Spring 2009 contest was open to students in grades 6 –12 through health education classes. School winners in the Spring 2009 Tobacco Prevention Poster Contest: Jordan T. Jones, Wicomico Middle School (Teacher, Debbie Daugherty Ball) Natalia Mosquera, Mardela Middle School (Teacher, Linda Nestor) Aaron Willey, Wicomico High School (Teacher, Gerald Broadie) Three more school winners also had their worked selected for additional honors: Moon Choi, Parkside High School, selected as “Overall High School Winner.” Her poster was displayed on a lighted sign at the Centre of Salisbury (Teacher, Joe Halowich) Yura Kim, Bennett Middle School, selected as “Overall Middle School Winner.” Her poster was displayed on a full-size billboard in a prominent location on Route 13 Salisbury (Teacher, Leslie Bartoshesky) Chris Robeck, James M. Bennett High School. His poster was selected to be displayed in a showcase at the Centre of Salisbury (Teacher, Kathy Elliott) High School Scholars Recognition Recognition of students whose achievement in academics has earned them state and national scholar awards: Maryland Distinguished Scholar Program The Maryland Distinguished Scholar Program is sponsored by the Maryland Higher Education Commission. Students may enter this state-wide program in their junior year. Eligible students must earn a minimum cumulative un-weighted GPA of 3.7 and must submit either PSAT or SAT scores and an application. Students are then identified as Honorable Mention or they are selected to advance and compete for the Distinguished Scholar Award and associated scholarships. Maryland Distinguished Scholar Finalists: Heather Goldsborough, Parkside High School Sean Kelley, James M. Bennett High School National Merit Scholarship Program The National Merit Scholarship Award Program is an academic competition for recognition and scholarships that began in 1955. High school students enter the National Merit Program by taking the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT). Of the 1.5 million students who take the PSAT/NMSQT in a given year, 50,000 qualify for recognition through the National Merit Scholarship Program. Commended students in the National Merit Scholarship Program on the basis of their outstanding ability and potential for academic success in college: Ethan Kahn, James M. Bennett High School Robert Lowe, James M. Bennett High School Michael Tilghman, Parkside High School Eric Wood, Parkside High School National Merit Scholarship semifinalists are the highest-scoring entrants in each state and are eligible to advance to the competition for the national merit Scholarships. The following student has earned the designation National Merit Scholarship Semi-Finalist: Sean Kelley, James M. Bennett High School AP Scholars At the end of each Advanced Placement course, students have the option to take an exam on which high marks may earn them college credit. The AP Program recognizes students for outstanding success on these exams. AP Scholars, recognized for receiving grades of 3 or higher on three or more AP Exams, are: Lauren Abresch, Wicomico High School Kevin Ardis, Parkside High School Jessie Bonilla, Wicomico High School Christopher Burkett, Parkside High School Andrew Dane, Parkside High School Ellen Drew, Parkside High School Benjamin Hasson, Parkside High School Michael Meenehan, James M. Bennett High School Michael Raffeto, Parkside High School Christopher Robeck, James M. Bennett High School Anna Schutschkow, Wicomico High School Justin Shields, Parkside High School Caitlin Sullivan, Wicomico High School Thelonious Williams, James M. Bennett High School Shane Wise, Parkside High School AP Scholars with Honor AP Scholars with Honor are recognized for receiving an average grade of at least 3.25 on all AP exams taken, AND grades of 3 or higher on four or more of these exams. AP Scholars with Honor are: Colby Dillon, Parkside High School Kathy Dunning, James M. Bennett High School Richard Henry, Parkside High School Alison Kim, James M. Bennett High School Emily Langan, James M. Bennett High School Hina Patel, James M. Bennett High School Eric Wood, Parkside High School AP Scholars with Distinction AP Scholars with Distinction are recognized for receiving an average grade of at least 3.5 on all AP exams taken AND grades of 3 or higher on five or more of these exams. AP Scholars with Distinction, all from James M. Bennett High School, are: Ethan Kahn Sean Kelley Kyle Kresge John Ryan National AP Scholar: The title of National AP Scholar is granted to students in the United States who receive an average score of at least 4 on all AP Exams taken, and scores of 4 or higher on eight or more of these exams. Wicomico County’s National AP Scholar is: Michael Tilghman of Parkside High School. (Michael could not be present tonight but will receive his award at the Board of Education’s Awards & Recognitions Night in January.) One School, One Book Campaign On behalf of Bennett Middle School, the Board of Education recognized an outstanding educator for her idea and implementation of the school-wide reading campaign “One School, One Book.” The vision to build a community of readers was Paige Greenwood’s motivation for initiating this program during the 2008-09 school year. Greenwood is the reading professional development coach at Bennett Middle. Students and staff members experienced camaraderie and a shared instructional focus through the reading of a common book. With the support of the PTA, Mrs. Greenwood was able to purchase 1000 copies of Touching Spirit Bear by renowned children’s author, Ben Mikealsen—enough books for every student and staff member at Bennett Middle School. WMDT Teacher Who Makes a Difference North Salisbury Elementary teacher Kaimais Love was selected as a “Teacher Who Makes a Difference” for the month of September 2009 by WMDT, Channel 47. Ms. Love is a 4th-grade math teacher at North Salisbury School. The letter recommending Ms. Love was submitted by a parent. 2009 Special Education Leadership Academy Graduates In recognition of two outstanding special educators who recently completed the Maryland State Department of Education Special Education Leadership Academies. MSDE’s Division of Special Education/Early Intervention Services sponsors a 12-month comprehensive academy to train potential leaders in the field of special education who are currently employed by local school systems. Kevin Smith, recognized for completing the Ninth Special Education Leadership Academy. Smith is a special education program specialist, responsible for chairing the Special Education Citizens Advisory Committee along with working collaboratively with elementary schools in improving students with special needs behavior and addressing compliance to improve the quality of education for students with disabilities. Claudia Hapner Young, recognized for completing the Third Early Intervention leadership Academy. Young is a special education teacher and service coordinator for the Wicomico Infants and Toddlers Program and has served in this role for the past nine years, working extensively with the birth to three year old population and their families in the provision of educational services in order to help the youngest children become developmentally ready for learning and functioning Outstanding Middle School Teacher Each year, the Maryland Association of Science Teachers solicits nominations from students, parents, and administrators for this prestigious award, and the honoree is recognized at the annual fall MAST conference with a complimentary one-year membership, a plaque, and a cash prize. Chad Pavlekovich of Salisbury Middle School has been recognized as the Outstanding Middle School Science Teacher for 2009-10 by the Maryland Association of Science Teachers. In his nine years as a science teacher in Wicomico County, Chad Pavlekovich’s work has included the development and leadership of Salisbury Middle’s Science Nights, with themes such as “Under the Milky Way” and “CSI”; working as a curriculum writer for the Middle School Science curriculum; and teaching in summer enrichment programs. He has previously been recognized as the Outstanding Teacher Mentor by Salisbury University. 2009 Arts Education School Willards Elementary has been recognized by the Arts Education in Maryland Schools Alliance as a Maryland School of Distinction in Arts Education. The school was also nominated for the 2008-09 John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts National School of Distinction in Arts Education Award. The Maryland School of Distinction in Arts Education Award is presented to individual Maryland public schools that have ensured a creative educational environment for outstanding student achievement by providing high-quality opportunities for learning in and through the arts. 2009 Maryland Character Education Award Recipients Each school year, the Maryland State Department of Education recognizes schools for their outstanding leadership and programs which focus on character building. These exemplary character education schools must show evidence of values throughout the school, moral actions of students and adults, positive behavior programs, caring school communities, participation of families in school activities, positive self-motivation of students and staff, and inclusion of curriculum materials with values-embedded concepts. Schools receiving Maryland Character Education recognition for 2009 are: Glen Avenue Elementary School, Principal Michael Collins Willards Elementary School, Principal Regina Rando (a Maryland Character Education School two years in a row) Delmar Elementary School, "Maryland Emerging School of Character Award," given by the Maryland State Schools of Character awards program. PBIS Schools Recognition PBIS (Positive Behavioral Intervention and Supports) is a process for creating safer and more effective schools. It is a systems approach to enhancing the capacity of schools to educate all children by developing research-based, school-wide, and classroom discipline systems. As part of the PBIS initiative in the state of Maryland, the PBIS State Leadership Team has developed a Recognition Program. Individual schools apply for recognition and a recognized school is one that has met specific criteria and has demonstrated innovative, creative and functional ways of implementing and sustaining PBIS. Sixteen schools have been recognized for their PBIS initiatives for the 2008-2009 School Year: Bronze designation from the PBIS State Recognition Program: Charles H. Chipman Elementary School Mardela Middle and High School Pinehurst Elementary School Silver designation from the PBIS State Recognition Program: Bennett Middle School Fruitland Primary School Salisbury Middle School West Salisbury Elementary School Gold designation from the PBIS State Recognition Program: Beaver Run Elementary School Delmar Elementary School East Salisbury Elementary School Fruitland Intermediate School Glen Avenue Elementary School North Salisbury Elementary School Pemberton Elementary School Prince Street Elementary School Westside Intermediate School FY2008-09 Third Quarter Recycling Contest Winners During the FY08-09 Third Quarter Recycling contest (March 2009 to June 2009), the school system recycled a total of 94,836 pounds of paper material. The school that won the Third Quarter Recycling Contest was Wonderful Willards Elementary School, with 8.97 pounds of recycled paper per student. Willards Elementary receives a $1,000 check from Walmart.

Notes from the November 10, 2009 Meeting of the Wicomico County Board of Education

Wicomico County Board of Education — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 09:16:55 -0500

The Wicomico County Board of Education at its monthly meeting Tuesday, Nov 10: Modified the contract for land acquisition for building the new Bennett Middle School. Approved the Revised Targets for Redistricting. The targets approved on October 13 did not reflect the changes made as a result of Board of Education Work Sessions. Approved Budget Transfer. Approved the monthly personnel report for certificated employees and budget transfers for November; received for information the monthly personnel report for classified. Received for information a list of the members of the Wicomico County Education Association’s 2009-10 Negotiation Team. Accepted the Financial Report and Audit Communications for School Activity Funds for the fiscal year that ended June 30, 2009. During Tuesday’s meeting, the Board also received: Superintendent’s Report Heard from Superintendent of Schools Dr. John Fredericksen: Summary of Competitive Proposals with a receipt of nearly $1.9 million in grant funding in the 2009-2010 school year. Enrollment numbers are in the process of being finalized; rather than increases in enrollment, there may be a reduction of enrollment by 12 student and numbers for students eligible for FARM (Free and Reduced Meals) are down. A concern that there is a cancer cluster at Bennett Middle School was investigated by the Facilities Staff. All environmental tests were normal. Family Portal will roll out during American Education Week, anticipating that 20,000 new users will be accessing our computer system to monitor students’ grades, attendance and homework. Parents/Guardians are encouraged to come to their students’ schools during American Education Week. Recommendation for GPA (grade point average) for student participation in extracurricular activities is 1.85 for 2010 and 2.00 for 2011. School system is collaborating with Parks and Recreation Department in the use of facilities to enable them to keep their programs going. Redistricting Committee will have its first meeting on Monday November 16. The targets were met for adequate participation by staff, parents, and community members. Persons not on the committee are urged to visit the website and submit comments or give feedback via telephone message line (410) 677-5251. Display at the Art Institute & Galleryfeatures the electronic design of the new James M. Bennett High School. School Climate Survey to be conducted the end of November. Memorandum of Understanding with Excel is being finalized to work with persistently violent and disruptive students. Appreciation to the Dental Society for offering the Street Drugs Symposium November 13 – 14. First Awards & Recognition Night will be held at Willards Elementary School on Tuesday November 17. Recognized the approval of the maintenance of effort plan by the Maryland Attorney General and noted that a check for $2 million was given to the County Executive on Friday November 6. Board of Education employees were encouraged to attend the County Council Budget Hearing on November 10, 2009. Shared a Budget Conservation Plan to conserve cash, reduce future financial pressure, and increase year to year stability. Board Member Reports Board members applauded WCCPTA’s efforts, noting the standing room only attendance at their October meeting and the attendance of 120 persons at its 2nd Legislative Night. Other Matters Observed a moment of silence in recognition of the passing of Coach Barbara McCool and instructional assistant Chris Bosies as well as in observance of Veterans Day. Made donations to James M. Bennett and Parkside Bands to assist with expenses incurred as they competed in the Atlantic Coast Band Tournament Championship.

Latest Edition of "Working Together for Children" Now Airing on PAC 14

Wicomico County Board of Education — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 09:11:01 -0500

The latest edition of "Working Together for Children" will debut at 6:30 p.m. tonight (Thursday, Nov. 12) on PAC 14 (Comcast Channel 14). It will also air at noon Saturday, and throughout the month of November and early December. This month's show features an interview with Superintendent of Schools Dr. John Fredericksen on topics including American Education Week, the new Family Portal, "moving the needle" and the dashboard, and more. Then it's on to the schools to see a successful school evacuation drill at Wicomico Early Learning Center, the first Punkin' Chunkin' at Salisbury Middle, DishiBem on stage and Rachel's Challenge, at Mardela Middle and High, H1N1 vaccine at Fruitland Primary, and the new paint booth at Parkside CTE. "Working Together for Children" airs regularly at 6:30 p.m. Thursdays and noon Saturdays; visit pac14.org for additional times. PAC 14 also streams its programming live on its web site at www.pac14.org, so viewers can visit the web site to "tune in" on line when the show is on the air. DVDs of many past "Working Together" shows are now available at the Wicomico Public Library. "Working Together for Children" is produced monthly by the Wicomico County Public Schools for broadcast to the community on PAC 14. "Working Together" was honored with a 2007 Hometown Video Award from the Alliance for Community Media in the Educational Profile category (nonprofessional production). For further information or to give feedback, please contact Dr. Faye Wilson at 410-677-4529 or fwilson@wcboe.org.

Officials from Wicomico County Public Schools, Wicomico County Announce Plan to

Wicomico County Board of Education — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 15:42:33 -0500

Officials from the Wicomico County School System and Wicomico County announced at a press conference Friday, Nov. 6, that they have agreed on a plan for funding and continuing the school crossing guard program for the remainder of the school year. The school system will pay approximately $50,000 out of contracted services so that the 13 school crossing guards can continue assisting students with street crossings at Wicomico County Public Schools, effective Dec. 1. For the remainder of the 2009-10 school year, the school crossing guards will be funded in much the same way as the school resource officers (Sheriff’s Office deputies assigned to schools), with the Sheriff’s Office handling the program and funding provided by the Board of Education. Having crossing guards to assist students at some of the busiest street crossings is a critical safety issue, and the school system holds student safety to be paramount, said Dr. John Fredericksen, superintendent of schools. Other areas of the budget will have to be reduced to ensure funding for the school crossing guards. The school system recognizes the unprecedented financial challenges facing Wicomico County, and is working closely with the county to find ways to save money while also protecting student safety and education, he said. Earlier this week, Wicomico County and Wicomico Schools received welcome news from the Maryland Attorney General's Office that their joint plan to meet the annual maintenance of effort requirement with a $2 million transfer from the school construction fund was valid. Wicomico's plan was the only one of three MOE plans that received state approval. At the press conference, Dr. Fredericksen presented Pollitt with the $2 million check. Sheriff Mike Lewis proposed the elimination of funding for school crossing guards as one way of meeting the need for budget reductions. The school crossing guard program is one item on a list of budget cuts proposed recently by County Executive Richard M. Pollitt Jr. The Wicomico County Council will hold a public hearing on those proposed cuts at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 10, at the Wicomico Youth & Civic Center. The Sheriff’s Office and the Wicomico County Board of Education anticipate signing a memorandum of understanding outlining the handling and funding of the school crossing guard after Nov. 30, when due to budget constraints the crossing guards will no longer be part of the Sheriff’s Office budget. The future of the school crossing guard program after June 30 will be discussed during the upcoming budget process for the budget year that will begin July 1.

Maryland Attorney General’s Office Rules in Favor of MOE Arrangement Between Wicomico Schools ...

Wicomico County Board of Education — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 13:28:31 -0500

The Maryland Attorney General’s Office on Wednesday issued an opinion stating that the arrangement between the Wicomico County Board of Education and Wicomico to meet the state’s maintenance of effort (MOE) requirement for 2009-10 “appears consistent with the State education law.” Transferring $2 million from the school system’s school construction fund – built from surplus funds from prior years’ appropriations and not from this year’s budget – “appears consistent with the State education law and the purpose of that fund,” the Nov. 4 opinion said. [click here to read the full opinion] "This success in finding a legal way to work together to solve a very difficult economic problem without jeopardizing major funding resources demonstrates the benefits of hard work and a bit of luck,” Superintendent of Schools Dr. John Fredericksen said. “The reserve fund was designed to be a tool that reduced deferred maintenance in a collaborative manner involving the Wicomico Board of Education, the Wicomico County Council, and local community experts. Fortunately, its design also facilitated the fund's use in this time of financial need.” The school system included the $2 million transfer to county in its fiscal 2010 budget, but could not make the payment until it got word from the Maryland Attorney General's Office that the arrangement was acceptable to the state. “The check will be delivered immediately," Dr. Fredericksen said. Board President Mark S. Thompson said the Board and school system are very excited and pleased with the opinion from the Maryland Attorney General's Office. "We were able to come up with a plan that enables us to help Wicomico County get through a time of financial difficulty, while still keeping us in good legal standing with regard to maintenance of effort. We had the right people in place at the right time to come up with a creative solution to get the job done and preserve much-needed state funding for Wicomico County Public Schools," Thompson said. MOE plans from Prince George’s and Montgomery counties were not deemed permissible. Dr. Fredericksen said many people had a hand in coming up with a solution for Wicomico that received state approval. "Thanks are due to many Board of Education staff members and Board members, past and present, for crafting a solution to the MOE challenge that was the only one recognized as valid by the Maryland Attorney General's Office,” Dr. Fredericksen said. “Wicomico schools and students also benefited greatly from the school system, Board of Education and the county working cooperatively to achieve a workable solution.” “The real winners here are our school children,” said County Executive Richard M. Pollitt Jr. “This assures us that critical state funds will continue to be available for our educational system. I’m obviously delighted that we were able to come up with a plan that passed legal muster. I also heartily congratulate the Board of Education and the County Council for making this happen.”

CHANGE IN MEETING TIME: Wicomico County Board of Education to Meet at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 10

Wicomico County Board of Education — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 05:59:52 -0500

The monthly meeting of the Wicomico County Board of Education that was scheduled for 7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 10, will now be held at 1:30 p.m. Nov. 10. The change in meeting time will allow the Board of Education and the public the opportunity to participate in both the Board meeting and the Wicomico County Council public hearing on proposed budget cuts. The County Council hearing is scheduled for 7 p.m. Nov. 10 at the Wicomico Youth & Civic Center.

2009 JMB Graduate Derek Wu Chosen to Serve as 2010 Olympic Torchbearer

Wicomico County Board of Education — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 14:15:11 -0500

Derek Wu, 17, of Salisbury has been selected as one of 10 U.S. teens to serve as a torchbearer for 2010 Winter Olympic Games in Vancouver. Currently a freshman at Princeton, Derek is a 2009 graduate of James M. Bennett High in Salisbury. While a senior, he served as the student member of the Maryland State Board of Education and as SGA president for James M. Bennett High School. He earned many honors and awards for his achievements in academics, extracurricular activities, service and music. Derek's parents, Drs. Ying Wu and Hong Yao, teach in the Perdue School of Business at Salisbury University, where Derek was a familiar face on campus as a student (taking six college courses while in high school)and competitor (a winner in the annual high school math competition co-sponsored and hosted by SU's Mathematics and Computer Science Department). Last spring he held a piano concert on campus with the assistance of SU's Department of Music and Cultural Affairs Office to raise money for the Youth Leadership Academy (YLA). Dr. George Whitehead, Professor of Psychology, served as Derek's mentor with the YLA and nominated him for the Olympic honor. Derek was also engaged in the Sister Cities program and presented at the 2008 National Conference on Undergraduate Research held here. Coca-Cola chose 20 inspiring people to be Torchbearers for the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Torch Relay. The U.S. Torchbearers were selected because they each use their passion for positive living to affect meaningful, enduring change in local and global communities. The Torchbearers will carry the Olympic Flame through Calgary, Canada, on Jan. 18-19, 2010 as it makes its way to Vancouver and the Opening Ceremony for the 2010 Olympic Winter Games on February 12, 2010. The Olympic Torch Relay, presented in part by Coca-Cola, will last for 106 days, cover more than 27,000 miles (45,000 kilometers) and link together more than 1,000 communities and places of interest throughout Canada. Torchbearers were selected because of their commitments to sustainably promoting three aspects of positive living, including: Balanced Living – staying active and physically fit while having fun with family and friends Community – working to make good things happen for people throughout the community Recycling – helping the planet by recycling or donating time to a recycling program in the community or school Among those chosen to carry the Flame are 10 teens, five leaders from national health organizations, three Coca-Cola North America employees and Olympic gold medalists Shawn Johnson and Steven Lopez, who are part of the Coca-Cola “Six Pack” of Olympic athletes and competed in the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing. People can view the Torchbearers’ route and learn more about their personal stories by visiting www.LivePositively.com. “These inspirational people have shown remarkable dedication in encouraging others and making a positive difference in so many lives, traits that Coca-Cola has long embraced. Coca-Cola is saluting these champions of positive living by recognizing them with the special opportunity to carry the Olympic Flame,” said Celeste Bottorff, Vice President of Living Well, Coca-Cola North America. Torchbearers were nominated by peers, teachers and leaders of youth organizations, and selected because of the significant contributions they have made in promoting healthy, active lifestyles, community involvement or recycling. In its announcement, Coca-Cola said of Wu: Derek Wu of Salisbury helped found the Youth Leadership Academy in Wicomico County, MD, a three-day workshop for middle and high school students to hone their leadership skills in their schools and communities.

Mardela Community Celebrates Life and Service of Legendary Coach and Teacher Barbara McCool

Wicomico County Board of Education — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 14:42:39 -0500

A memorial service for Mardela Middle and High School teacher and coach Barbara McCool, 71, was held in the school gymnasium Saturday, Oct. 31. She was celebrated in the gym where she had worked tirelessly since 1965, serving Mardela Middle and High School as a physical education teacher, athletic director, and coach of girls basketball and other sports. Coach McCool died at home Wednesday, Oct. 21. Memorial contributions can be made to Coastal Hospice, PO Box 1733, Salisbury, Maryland 21802. Arrangements are in the care of Holloway Funeral Home, 501 Snow Hill Rd. Salisbury, Maryland 21804.To send condolences to the family visit www.hollowayfh.com. “I’ve known Coach for about 23 years. I can’t say that I’ve gone a week in those 23 years without having some kind of correspondence with her,” said Tia Jackson, a 1990 Mardela High School graduate and star on its basketball team, now head coach of the University of Washington Huskies in Seattle. Jackson said that what she learned from “Coach” she will “continue to do for the duration of my life. I say I have these McCoolisms in my pocket that I carry with me wherever I go.” Jackson played in the WNBA in 1997, and worked as assistant coach at several universities before becoming a head coach in 2007. Whether she was a student, player or coach, Jackson could count on McCool to clue her in to the harsh truths and to continue to remind her of life lessons -- about work ethic and commitment to team and teammates -- first learned in the Mardela gym. “Coach” delivered even the sternest message with love. “I’m standing taller and stronger than I ever would have had she not been present in my world,” Jackson said. Dave Byrd, Pocomoke High School boys basketball coach and athletic director, traveled with McCool to state basketball meetings for 33 years and knew her even longer. McCool was “an icon, one of a kind,” he said. Known primarily as a girls basketball coach, McCool had also won a state championship in field hockey. She had an unflagging dedication to her school and to her profession as a physical education teacher. “She was just a great friend and a great example for educators on the Eastern Shore and student-athletes on the Eastern Shore,” Byrd said. “She was the No. 1 female coach and pushed our student-athletes to succeed on the field or court, and more importantly pushed our student-athletes to go on to college and succeed in life.” Claudia Hudson, a Mardela Middle and High teacher, knew McCool for many years as a fellow member of the Mardela staff and as her daughter’s basketball coach for six years. “I have heard her yell ‘God bless a milk cow!’ so many times that I can’t even say the words without hearing her voice.” But there are other things Hudson will remember: “She was just like a mother hen, hovering over the girls and making sure they were hydrated and ankles were wrapped and meals were healthy. It was quite an experience. The real moms went along too, but they always let Coach rule because they respected her so much and trusted her to do what was right.” Coach McCool was “a rare breed … hard as nails on the surface, but a real softie underneath,” paying for shoes, camps, uniforms so students wouldn’t miss out on opportunities “because she believed in the kids and she wanted the best for them.” She taught her athletes about truth, commitment, honesty, conviction, sportsmanship, self respect, dedication and work ethic. At Mardela Middle and High School, Hudson’s daughter Tania was in the capable and challenging hands of Coach McCool. Toward the end of her life, McCool was in the hands of Tania Hudson Reeder, the former student who was now her lung doctor. Coach proudly told anyone who would listen than she had taught her lung doctor everything she knew. “The truth is, Barb always did encourage Tania, and never faltered in her faith in her.” McCool received a bachelor’s degree from Appalachian College in Boone, N.C., in 1960, and for five years she taught physical education in Virginia school districts. In 1965 she was hired as a teacher for Mardela Middle and High, and she remained there for the rest of her career, serving not only as a teacher but as the athletic director and girls head basketball coach. She also served as head coach of the boys soccer team for three years at a time when a strong coach was needed to rebuild the program. She also coached volleyball and track and field during her career. “As a head coach, she was a true professional, performing her duties with the utmost efficiency and ability. She was an innovative and dynamic coach, infusing her athletes with tremendous motivation and instilling in them a desire to be the best they can be,” said Ralph Osborne, who as supervisor of athletics for Wicomico County Public Schools supervised Coach McCool for 23 years. Though she coached at one of the smallest high schools in the state, she fostered a tradition of success for her teams and athletes. She was recognized earlier this year for reaching the milestone of 600 career varsity wins, and in 2008-09 was selected as the Maryland District VIII Athletic Director of the Year. Her teams had numerous county, conference and regional titles over the decades. “While she was demanding of her athletes, she always had their best interests at heart. She nurtured them and encouraged them in all their endeavors,” Osborne said. “Her demands and expectations of her athletes were only surpassed by the demands and expectations she placed on herself. She was like iron, never bending or breaking. In more than 40 years of coaching, she only ever missed one game, and that was due to an emergency stay at the hospital – with guards outside the door, of course, to prevent her leaving for the game.” Liza Hastings, assistant principal at Bennett Middle School, played for Coach McCool from 1988-92. Unlike Jackson, one of her contemporaries, Hastings did not seem destined for a career in basketball either as a player or coach. That didn’t matter to Coach McCool, who pushed every player to be their personal best no matter what their level of ability. Though Hastings was not a natural athlete, “She never let me use that as an excuse. She taught me to push myself, that you have to have pride, and that you never settle… She pushed, and because of that I pushed, and that translated into academics and other areas of high school, like getting into the SGA (Student Government Association).” “I have such respect for her, I really do. She’s one of my heroes,” Hastings said. Ron Wainwright, a Mardela High School history teacher and former Wicomico Teacher of the Year, held Coach McCool in high esteem after knowing her for 25 years and spending 14 years as her assistant coach for soccer, track and basketball. “She sacrificed a lot of her own personal life for the kids and the school,” he said. “I know of no person who has ever put in as much time for the kids and the basketball program and the school as she did – ever.” “She would do or say anything if it was in the best interest of the kids,” Wainwright said. The Mardela Middle and High School family and the community will celebrate her life and career even as they mourn her passing. She will be missed by many in Wicomico County and beyond. “Coach McCool exemplifies our Wicomico County teaching staff in her intense dedication to the success of every student in her care,” said Dr. John Fredericksen, superintendent of schools. “She was the consummate professional in her knowledge of her subjects and students. She spent the time needed not only to bring their skills up to the highest level at which they could achieve, but to give the gift of focused attention to each student who entered her classroom, field or gym. She was a true teacher in the highest sense of the title.” New Mardela Middle and High School teacher Barbara McCool, from the 1966 yearbook Barbara McCool (shown here in the 1971 yearbook) coached her teams to 675 victories and influenced thousands of young people during her 49-year career as a coach and educator. Coach McCool in action in the 1989-90 season. Tia Jackson's first memory of Coach McCool is of having the 5'1" dynamo pouncing on her in the hallway like Mufasa in The Lion King. "You play ball?" the coach growled to the new Mardela student. "If I didn't," Jackson says, "I knew enough to say I did." Best known for coaching girls basketball, Coach McCool also coached volleyball (shown here in the 1966 yearbook), boys soccer, track and field, and field hockey. From her first team in 1965-66 to 2009, McCool was known for being tough but caring in pursuit of team and personal excellence. For 49 years, Barbara McCool was known for her intensity and dedication. (Photo courtesy of Mardela Middle and High School) Photo courtesy of The Daily Times: Barbara McCool during her final season as Mardela Middle and High School's girls basketball coach. In April, the Wicomico County Board of Education recognized Coach McCool for the outstanding career achievement of reaching the milestone of 600 Varsity wins in the state of Maryland. McCool had been recognized by the Maryland State Athletic Directors Association as the District VIII Athletic Director of the Year. McCool received a Governor's Citation and House Resolution in her honor.

Wicomico Schools Honored for Outstanding PBIS Programs

Wicomico County Board of Education — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 11:36:39 -0500

Sixteen Wicomico schools will be honored at the Nov. 17 Wicomico County Board of Education Awards & Recognitions Night for earning Gold, Silver or Bronze status for their effective PBIS programs. PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) is an evidence-based approach to establishing a positive school climate. Various schools in Wicomico and throughout the country have implemented PBIS with tremendous success, said Dr. Wayne Hickman, PBIS organizer for Wicomico County Public Schools. Gold, Silver and Bronze recognition come as recognition for a school’s effective PBIS initiatives. The schools received recognition for their outstanding PBIS programs during a ceremony held at Wor-Wic Community College at the 2009 PBIS Eastern Shore Regional Summer Institute. Wicomico schools recognized as Gold Schools were Beaver Run Elementary, Delmar Elementary, East Salisbury Elementary, Fruitland Intermediate, Glen Avenue Elementary, North Salisbury Elementary, Pemberton Elementary, Prince Street Elementary, and Westside Intermediate. Recognized as Silver Schools were Bennett Middle, Fruitland Primary, Salisbury Middle and West Salisbury Elementary. Recognized as Bronze Schools were Charles H. Chipman Elementary, Mardela Middle and High, and Pinehurst Elementary. During the 2009 Summer Institute, school representatives from Wicomico, Somerset, Worcester, Caroline and Talbot counties participated in returning team training. Attendees received training in many areas, including behavioral strategies for the classroom, PBIS action planning, bullying intervention strategies, understanding gang culture, and various elements of PBIS. Schools recognized from other counties were: Gold: Somerset Intermediate and Woodson Elementary (Somerset County); Buckingham Elementary, Pocomoke Elementary, Pocomoke Middle and Snow Hill Middle (Worcester County); and Ridgely Elementary (Caroline County). Silver: Berlin Intermediate, Cedar Chapel Special School, Showell Elementary and Snow Hill Elementary (Worcester) Bronze: Federalsburg Elementary (Caroline)

Redistricting Process: Redistricting Task Force to Begin Meeting Nov. 16

Wicomico County Board of Education — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 11:28:28 -0500

The Redistricting Task Force for Wicomico County Public Schools will begin meeting Monday, Nov. 16. Over the past three weeks, the school system was contacted by a number of volunteers willing to serve on the Redistricting Task Force. That Task Force is now ready to begin meeting and will meet approximately twice a week through early January. The Wicomico County Board of Education at its monthly meeting Tuesday, Oct. 13, approved the use of a task force comprised of approximately 1/3 staff, 1/2 parents/guardians, and 1/6 community members to assist the school system with redistricting. The task force includes parents/guardians and community members from throughout the county. (Staff members who serve on the task force will serve only as staff members, not as parents.) “It’s very critical that we have the input from our entire community on this task force,” Board President Mark S. Thompson said. Redistricting is necessary because in the more than 10 years since Wicomico last changed school boundaries, some Wicomico schools have become overcrowded while others are underutilized, Superintendent of Schools Dr. John Fredericksen said at the October Board of Education meeting. The Redistricting Task Force, starting from Targets for Establishing Student Attendance Areas, will examine enrollment numbers and other data to develop a redistricting proposal. There will be many opportunities for public input before the Task Force presents a final proposal to the Board in January. “This process has built-in times for people to get involved and share their thoughts,” said L. Michelle Wright, Board vice president. Throughout the redistricting process, the Board will keep the community up to date with a redistricting page on its web site at www.wcboe.org/redistricting, and public input may be made at any time by calling 410-677-5251 and leaving a message, or e-mailing to comments@wcboe.org. A final vote on the redistricting plan is anticipated for the February 2010 Board meeting.

Mardela Community Mourns Passing of Legendary Coach and Teacher Barbara McCool

Wicomico County Board of Education — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 16:25:04 -0500

Barbara McCool, 71, who since 1965 had served Mardela Middle and High School as a physical education teacher and coach of girls basketball and other sports, died Wednesday, Oct. 21. Arrangements are being handled by Holloway Funeral Home in Salisbury. Coach McCool’s funeral service will be held at Mardela Middle and High School at 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 31. “I loved her and she loved kids,” Principal Lori Batts said. “She went to the ends of the earth to help students. She put so much of her time, money, blood, sweat and tears into this school and we are grateful for her.” McCool received a bachelor’s degree from Appalachian College in Boone, N.C., in 1960, and for five years she taught physical education in Virginia school districts. In 1965 she was hired as a teacher for Mardela Middle and High, and she remained there for the rest of her career, serving not only as a teacher but as the athletic director and girls head basketball coach. She also served as head coach of the boys soccer team for three years at a time when a strong coach was needed to rebuild the program. “As a head coach, she was a true professional, performing her duties with the utmost efficiency and ability. She was an innovative and dynamic coach, infusing her athletes with tremendous motivation and instilling in them a desire to be the best they can be,” said Ralph Osborne, who as supervisor of athletics for Wicomico County Public Schools supervised Coach McCool for 23 years. Though she coached at one of the smallest high schools in the state, she fostered a tradition of success for her teams and athletes. She was recognized earlier this year for reaching the milestone of 600 career varsity wins, and in 2008-09 was selected as the Maryland District VIII Athletic Director of the Year. Her teams had numerous county, conference and regional titles over the decades. “While she was demanding of her athletes, she always had their best interests at heart. She nurtured them and encouraged them in all their endeavors,” Osborne said. “Her demands and expectations of her athletes were only surpassed by the demands and expectations she placed on herself. She was like iron, never bending or breaking. In more than 40 years of coaching, she only ever missed one game, and that was due to an emergency stay at the hospital – with guards outside the door, of course, to prevent her leaving for the game.” Liza Hastings, assistant principal at Bennett Middle School, played for Coach McCool from 1988-92. Unlike one of her contemporaries, Tia Jackson, Hastings did not seem destined for a career in basketball either as a player or coach. That didn’t matter to Coach McCool, who pushed every player to be their personal best no matter what their level of ability. Though Hastings was not a natural athlete, “She never let me use that as an excuse. She taught me to push myself, that you have to have pride, and that you never settle… She pushed, and because of that I pushed, and that translated into academics and other areas of high school, like getting into the SGA (Student Government Association).” “I have such respect for her, I really do. She’s one of my heroes,” Hastings said. Ron Wainwright, a Mardela High School history teacher and former Wicomico Teacher of the Year, held Coach McCool in high esteem after knowing her for 25 years and spending 14 years as her assistant coach for soccer, track and basketball. “She sacrificed a lot of her own personal life for the kids and the school,” he said. “I know of no person who has ever put in as much time for the kids and the basketball program and the school as she did – ever.” “She would do or say anything if it was in the best interest of the kids,” Wainwright said. The Mardela Middle and High School family and the community will celebrate her life and career even as they mourn her passing. She will be missed by many in Wicomico County and beyond. “Coach McCool exemplifies our Wicomico County teaching staff in her intense dedication to the success of every student in her care,” said Dr. John Fredericksen, superintendent of schools. “She was the consummate professional in her knowledge of her subjects and students. She spent the time needed not only to bring their skills up to the highest level at which they could achieve, but to give the gift of focused attention to each student who entered her classroom, field or gym. She was a true teacher in the highest sense of the title.”

Administration of H1N1 Intranasal Vaccine Continues in Wicomico Schools

Wicomico County Board of Education — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 17:02:43 -0500

The Wicomico County School System and the Wicomico County Health Department are working together to offer the H1N1 intranasal vaccine to Wicomico elementary students. Clinics are scheduled Friday, Nov. 6, for students at Fruitland Intermediate and North Salisbury Elementary. Clinics have already been held at Fruitland Primary, Beaver Run Elementary, Westside Intermediate, Prince Street Elementary, Willards Elementary, Pemberton Elementary, Charles H. Chipman Elementary, East Salisbury Elementary, Westside Primary, Delmar Elementary and Glen Avenue Elementary. Consent forms for the H1N1 vaccine were sent home to elementary parents/guardians, and students whose parents signed and returned the consent form receive the vaccination free on the day of their school’s clinic. Consent forms have also gone home with middle and high school students. Parents/guardians should immediately sign and return the consent form if they would like their student to be vaccinated. The Health Department will schedule clinics for middle and high school students once it knows how many students have returned signed the signed consent form. The Wicomico County Health Department (WiCHD) will hold a FREE H1N1 vaccination clinic on Friday, Nov. 6. Appointments are required. Vaccinations are available in intranasal or injectable form. Priority groups for this clinic have been expanded and include the following: pregnant women, persons who live with or provide care for infants under 6 months of age and any individuals aged 6 months-to-24 years of age. The appointment only clinic will be held at the William C. Fritz building located at 300 West Carroll Street in Salisbury. To schedule an appointment, please call 410-543-6943. Additional walk-in clinics for individuals within the priority groups will continue to be scheduled as vaccine becomes available. Clinic dates and locations will be posted on the Health Department website at www.wicomicohealth.org. For additional flu information, please call 211 the local H1N1 Resource Hotline. Tips for parents/guardians on preventing H1N1 are available on the school system’s web site at http://www.wcboe.org/resources/documents/H1N1newforparents.pdf.

Stadium Activities October 16 - 19

Wicomico County Board of Education — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Due to the weather, Friday's game between JMB versus Washington has been canceled and rescheduled for Monday, October 19, 2009, at 6:30 PM.

There will now be two games played on Monday at the stadium.The game of Wicomico versus Parkside will be at 2:00 pm, followed by James M. Bennett versus Washington at 6:30 pm.

The decision on the Delmarvacade of Bands will be determined Saturday October 17, after 11:00 am.

Thursday Night's Wicomico High-Parkside High Football Game Postponed

Wicomico County Board of Education — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 15:19:01 -0500

Due to weather and field conditions at the Wicomico County Stadium, tonight's Wicomico High School home football game vs. Parkside High School has been postponed until Monday, Oct. 19. If the JMB vs. Washington High game is played on Friday night, the Wi-Hi vs. Parkside game will take place at 6:30 p.m. Monday. However, if JMB's game is also postponed, Wi-Hi vs. Parkside will be at 2 p.m. Monday and JMB vs. Washington will be at 6:30 p.m.

Statement from Superintendent of Schools Dr. John Fredericksen on Determination on Media Center Book

Wicomico County Board of Education — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 14:13:16 -0500

On Tuesday, Oct. 6, a member of the Wicomico County Council presented Wicomico County Board of Education administration with several photo-copied pages from Dragon Ball: The Monkey King, a book checked out by a 9-year-old Pittsville Elementary and Middle School student. As soon as staff members became aware of a concern about the book, they began the process of removing the book from media center shelves for review. Dragon Ball series books at Pittsville School and Parkside High School were removed from media center shelves for a committee review as required by procedures and policy. A complaint form was later received from a parent. The Dragon Ball: The Monkey King book was purchased via grant funds by a first-year media specialist (librarian) in the fall of 2006. It was one of the approximately 275 books the media specialist secured that year for the 455-student school. The book had been requested by a student. To expedite the process of acquiring the book, the media specialist went to Barnes & Noble and purchased it along with several other books. There were no warnings on the books and the media specialist and bookstore clerk were unaware at the time that the Dragon Ball series was intended for young adults, while the Dragon Ball Z series (a more edited version by the same author) was intended for all audiences. The media specialist checked the books on the Amazon website at the time and no alerts or other warnings were posted. The book was rated for all audiences by viz.com and was contained on the Scholastic book title list. This book, like others, was briefly scanned. Nothing unusual or offensive was found, and the book was placed in circulation. The book was checked out nine times in three years by a number of students, with no comments or complaints. There did not appear to be an unusual check out pattern for the book. The committee met on Oct. 12 to review Dragon Ball: The Monkey King book. The committee members and I have read the book, and several committee members have read other books from the Dragon Ball series that were pulled from media center shelves for review. After review, the committee recommended removal of all books in the Dragon Ball series. The committee is continuing to study the Dragon Ball Z series (intended for all audiences) for further recommendations. I concur with the committee’s recommendation. It is my determination as superintendent that the protection of Wicomico County Public School students from inappropriate material supersedes any interest that there might be in having this book available in our media centers. I am directing that the books pulled for committee review -- Dragon Ball: The Monkey King and the remainder of the Dragon Ball series (not the Dragon Ball Z series, which is still under review) -- not be returned to our school media centers. These books will not be available in any Wicomico school media center. This decision does not deny the use of acceptable graphic novels as an available educational tool in the school system. Graphic novels with appropriate content can be a useful tool in encouraging reluctant readers to pick up a book and read. As a result of this incident, we are instituting more focused and ongoing professional development training on the selection of media materials and additional procedures to handle student requests for media books and resources. The Wicomico County Public School System regrets the offense caused to the family that submitted a complaint about the book. I urge anyone who has a concern about reading materials brought home from school to contact the school so that the procedures and policies already in place for handling such concerns can be followed and a resolution to the concern can be reached.

Notes from the Oct. 13 Meeting of the Wicomico County Board of Education

Wicomico County Board of Education — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 12:50:54 -0500

The Wicomico County Board of Education at its monthly meeting Tuesday, Oct. 13, approved the use of a task force comprised of approximately 1/3 staff, 1/2 parents/guardians, and 1/6 community members to assist the school system with redistricting. Redistricting is necessary because in the more than 10 years since Wicomico last changed school boundaries, some Wicomico schools have become overcrowded while others are underutilized, Superintendent of Schools Dr. John Fredericksen said. The Redistricting Task Force, starting from Targets for Establishing Student Attendance Areas, will examine enrollment numbers and other data to develop a redistricting proposal. There will be many opportunities for public input before the Task Force presents a final proposal to the Board in January. “This process has built-in times for people to get involved and share their thoughts,” said L. Michelle Wright, Board vice president. Throughout the redistricting process, the Board will keep the community up to date with a redistricting page on its web site at www.wcboe.org, and public input may be made at any time by calling 410-677-5251 or e-mailing to comments@wcboe.org. A final vote on the redistricting plan is anticipated for the February 2010 Board meeting. Dr. Fredericksen said the school system is now accepting volunteers to serve on the 25- to 35-member Redistricting Task Force, which will meet approximately twice a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays from late October to early January. The task force will include parents/guardians and community members from throughout the county. (Staff members who serve on the task force will serve only as staff members, not as parents.) “It’s very critical that we have the input from our entire community on this task force,” Board President Mark S. Thompson said. Anyone interested in serving on the Redistricting Task Force may call 410-677-4501, or send an e-mail to comments@wcboe.org. Please share a little information about your background, your location and your interest in serving on the Task Force. This will assist the Board in appointing a Task Force whose members represent the many facets of the community. At Tuesday’s meeting, the Board also approved the execution of a contract to purchase land on South Division Street in Fruitland for the construction of a new Bennett Middle School. This will enable the school system to stay on schedule in seeking construction funding for the project. The land, known as Site #9 during the selection process, is located on South Division Street between Route 13 and Camden Avenue Extended. Through evaluation of the two finalist sites, this site was determined to be most suitable because of sewer and water amenities, access to potential walkers, and other factors, including the preference of the site by the state. The purchase price will be $2 million, with associated development costs of $4.7 million. The Board’s vote on Tuesday also authorized entering into a Memorandum of Understanding with the city of Fruitland for sewer and water services. Dr. Fredericksen also informed the Board that he concurs with the recommendation of the committee that studied a number of the books in the “Dragon Ball” series that none of the books is to be on the shelves in Wicomico school media centers. The committee is continuing to review another version of the graphic novel, "Dragon Ball Z," to see if its content is appropriate, as graphic novels can be useful in encouraging reluctant readers to read. He apologized to the family whose complaint about one of the books brought the matter to the school system’s attention. During Tuesday’s meeting, the Board also: New Board Members Welcomed new Board members Donald L. Fitzgerald and Larry W. Dodd. Public Comment Heard from Mary Ashanti, president of the Wicomico County Chapter of the NAACP, that the NAACP is concerned about the minority achievement gap and that it wants to see the minimum GPA (grade point average) for participation in sports and other extracurricular activities raised from 1.6 to 2.0 for the start of the 2010-11 school year. The GPA committee will meet next week to continue discussing the best plan for raising the minimum GPA for extracurricular activities from 1.6 to 2.0. Superintendent’s Report Heard from Superintendent of Schools Dr. John Fredericksen that: Enrollment numbers are not finalized yet, but it appears there are increases in both overall enrollment and the percentage of students eligible for Free and Reduced Meals. The school system and Wicomico County are still awaiting word from the Maryland Attorney General’s Office on the maintenance of effort plan. The school system is working with County Executive Rick Pollitt on a financial plan that would provide local funding for the Bennett Middle School project so that Wicomico can stay on schedule to request state funding. The Wicomico County Council on Oct. 6 denied the Board’s request for budget transfers between line items to cover the cost of instructional assistants for four non-Title I schools, temporary clerical help for the launch of the Family Portal, and three assistants at Westside Primary. The school system will work out alternate ways to fund these items, which are needed to ensure support for students in non-Title I schools and to make possible the timely introduction of the Family Portal, which will be an invaluable information and communication tool between schools and families, he said. It will be critical during the budget process for next year’s budget for the Wicomico County Board of Education to have good communication and collaboration with other boards of education and the county executive. Dr. Fredericksen said he anticipates many conversations with legislators once the General Assembly opens in Annapolis: “It is crucial that we have some success there.” The school system will present its Capital Improvement Plan to the state next week. Materials purchased with ARRA (American Recovery and Reinvestment Act) funds are arriving and being put to use for students. Wicomico will be very interested in putting the ARRA funds to work in ways that can benefit students over at least two years, when the budget may become even tighter. Planning for a school climate survey is ongoing, with discussions occurring with vendors on financial adjustments to make the survey affordable. A dress code committee continues to meet and will report to the Board in a couple of weeks. Good progress is being made, in cooperation with other agencies in the community, on programs for persistently violent and dangerous students. The logo committee is meeting this week. The school system is working to make publications and other information readily available on its web site at www.wcboe.org. Monthly Reports Approved the monthly personnel report for certificated employees and budget transfers for October, and received for information the monthly personnel report for classified employees and the monthly grants report. The Board noted that the personnel matters reports reflect that this is the big year for retirements under the Early Notification Program, and that while having early notice will be beneficial for budget planning and recruiting, it will be a challenge to replace the many veteran teachers and other employees who will retire at the end of this year. Negotiation Teams Approved members of the Unit I, Unit II, and Units III and IV negotiating teams for 2009-10, with Stacy Messick and William Cain as co-chief negotiators. Parent Advisory Committees Approved revisions to the parent advisory committees for Glen Avenue Elementary and Northwestern Elementary. Procurement Policy Revised the Procurement Policy to reflect current practices of using existing contracts with regional and national cooperatives when beneficial for purchasing. Bid Award Awarded the bid for Fencing - UP (miscellaneous fencing repair and installation) to Long Fence Co. as the primary vendor and Dickerson Fence Co. as the secondary vendor, as the evaluated low responsive and responsible bidders. JMB Contract Modifications Approved a change order on the James M. Bennett High replacement project that creates a $686.38 credit in the project’s contingency fund. Resource Guide and Curriculum Guide Approved on first and final reading a new English HSA Remediation Resource Guide and the English 9 Curriculum Guide. Both guides had been reviewed and approved by the Curriculum Council. Audit Report Accepted the Financial Report and Audit Communications for the fiscal year that ended June 30, 2009. The reports were submitted to the state by the state’s Sept. 30 deadline. The superintendent and the Board congratulated staff on the good audit report. Board Member Reports Heard from Vice President Wright that the Maryland Teacher of the Year Gala was well organized and well attended. Heard from President Thompson that a few Board members attended the Maryland Association of Boards of Education conference and received invaluable professional development.

JMB Volleyball Team Celebrates Raising $1,650 with Dig Pink Event

Wicomico County Board of Education — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 10:03:34 -0500

This fall, thousands of teams from around the country participated in the Dig Pink National Breast Cancer Awareness Rally. High school and college teams did a tremendous job promoting Breast health education in the community. More than 200 fans showed up to cheer on the James M. Bennett Clippers and the Parkside Rams as they battled on the court. The stands were loaded with people wearing pink clothing, from ribbons to T-shirts. The event raised over $1,650 for the cause. “It was obvious that we were going to reach our initial fundraising goal of $1,000. We had raised that much before the event had begun. However, I never imagined how generous and receptive the community would be. It was amazing to be able to start the ball rolling and watch it take on a life of its own,” said Coach Chris Emge. Every varsity player on both teams was given the goal of raising $50 each to support this event. Ninety-nine percent of the girls met that goal and most surpassed it. Their overwhelming support shows how dedicated they were to the cause. As an inaugural event, the success was evident from the very beginning. "This year we set the bar. In years to come, we hope to raise it!" Coach Emge said. The proceeds from all donations benefited the Side-Out Foundation, a national 501(c)(3) located in the Washington DC Metropolitan Area. Funds are currently devoted to targeted therapies and molecular profiling which is where there has been break throughs in diagnostics and treatment. Side-Out also devotes a portion of the funds to local and national “Life with Cancer” support organizations. Sponsors: Becker Morgan Group, Yalich Clinic, Blood Bank of Delmarva, UMES Volleyball, Cactus Taverna, Chick-fil-a, Chipman Elementary School, Never 2 Tan, DJ Rusty Griswald, Sharp Water, Parkside High School, The Picture People, Powerhouse Gym, SU Volleyball, Salisbury Cruise Club, Gardner Sign, The Centre at Salisbury, Soft Touch Car Wash, World Gym, Reedy’s DJ Connection, Philly Pretzel Factory, Kitty’s Flowers, Crabs to Go, Amber Nicole’s Bridal and Formal, Breaktime Sports Grill & Pub and Express. Each of these sponsors made either a financial donation, a donation in the form of a prize or gift certificate for our post match serving contest or both. The event would not have been successful without the help and support of our community. For more information about the event, please contact Chris Emge at cemge@wcboe.org or 410-430-8484.

Opportunities to Support Our Schools (Updated 11/16/09)

Wicomico County Board of Education — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 14:27:51 -0500

Through Nov. 20 Cheesecake Orders Salisbury Middle School As a special part of Salisbury Middle School's multifaceted book fair, the school is taking orders starting in early November through Nov. 20 for cheesecakes through the Barnes & Noble Café. These cheesecakes will be available for pickup just in time for Thanksgiving break. Call 410-677-5149. Through Nov. 30 Fruit Sale Salisbury Middle School Band The Salisbury Middle School Band is holding its annual Fruit Sale. Contact the school at 410-677-5149 or talk with any band or band front member to place your order. The sale will end Nov. 30. Fruit will be delivered on or near Dec. 16. All proceeds go towards the band’s yearly expenses. Friday, Nov. 13-Friday, Nov. 20 PTA Book Fair Fruitland Primary and Intermediate Schools Fruitland Intermediate and Fruitland Primary PTA Book Fair will be held from Nov. 13-20. The book fair is located in the Media Center at both the Intermediate and Primary Schools. The Book Fair will be open on the evening of Nov. 20 from 6-8 during the Family Fun and Fitness Night, held at Fruitland Primary School for students and families of both Fruitland schools. (Note: This PTA Family Fun and Fitness Night is open to all PTA members from Wicomico schools, and non-PTA parents/guardians who would like to bring their children to the event can register for the PTA at the door if from Fruitland, or pay $5 at the door per adult.) Monday, Nov. 16-Friday, Nov. 20 Book Fair Charles H. Chipman Elementary School Charles H. Chipman Elementary School in Salisbury is havig a book fair during American Education Week (Nov. 16-20), put on by the Chipman PTA. 410-677-5814. Monday, Nov. 16-Friday, Nov. 20 Book Fair Northwestern Elementary School Northwestern Elementary School is having a Read Around the World Book Fair Nov. 16-20. 410-677-5808. Friday, Nov. 20 International Dessert Theater Cabaret James M. Bennett High School The James M. Bennett High World Language Department and the Class of 2011 are sponsoring an International Dessert Theater Cabaret on Friday, Nov. 20 from 7-9:30 p.m. Entertainment by staff and students in many languages will be showcased: singing, dancing, poetry recitation, instrumentals and short vignettes in English, Spanish, French, German, Korean, and Hungarian. Tickets are $5 per person and may be purchased in advance from performers or at lunch shifts; they will also be available at the door for $6. 410-677-5141 Friday, Nov. 20 Talent Show and Spaghetti Dinner Mardela Middle and High School Mardela's students and staff will display their talents for the community in this "Return to the 80's Talent Show." There will also be a silent auction. Tickets are $8 for adults and $5 for children 10 and under. No tickets will be sold at the door. The Edgeucators will perform during intermission. Contact information: Mardela Middle and High 410-677-5142. Sharon Harcum, talent show director, sharcum@bwave.com. Lesia Pruitt, dinner coordinator, pruitt25@comcast.net. Dawn Carey, silent auction coordinator, acarey889@comcast.net. Friday, Nov. 20 Flower Sale to Benefit Yearbook Begins Mardela Middle and High School Mardela Middle and High School’s annual poinsettia flower sale to support the publication of the yearbook begins Nov. 20. A variety of colors and sizes are available. Delivery is right after the end date of Dec. 16. 410-677-5142. Saturday, Nov. 21 BingoMania 51 Mardela Middle and High Band Benefit BingoMania 51 will be held Saturday, Nov. 21, at the Wicomico Youth & Civic Center. Doors open at 5pm, Early Bird Play at 6pm, Regular Play at 7:30p. Sponsored by the Mardela Middle and High School Band Parents. Proceeds support Mardela Bands and Bandfront with the purchase of music, instruments, equipment, uniforms, transportation, scholarships, and other means that provide for the student. 410-677-5142. Saturday, Nov. 21 Holiday Craft Sale Bennett Middle School PTA The Bennett Middle School PTA will have a craft sale from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 21, in the school cafeteria. The event will feature handmade crafts and gift items by local artisans. Call now if you are interested in being a craft vendor. Refreshments will be available for purchase. For more information call Laurie Parker at 410-677-5140. Saturday, Nov. 21 Step and Cheer for a Cure Salisbury Middle School Step and Cheer for a Cure, a fund-raiser to benefit the American Cancer Society, will take place at Salisbury Middle School from 2-4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 21. To promote community awareness of the many types of cancer, SMS is sponsoring this fund-raiser and inviting Step and Cheer teams from the area to sign up to perform; please contact Cassandra O'Neal at coneal@wcboe.org or 410-677-5149 to register your team by Oct. 30. Each performance only needs to be 3 minutes. Family members are strongly encouraged to attend. Refreshments will be available. Donations are welcome, and all donations will go to the American Cancer Society to support its mission of eliminating cancer as a major health problem by preventing cancer, saving lives and diminishing suffering through research, education, advocacy and service. 410-677-5149. Sunday, Nov. 22 All-You-Can-Eat Pancake and Sausage Breakfast Mardela Middle and High Wrestling Team The wrestling team of Mardela Middle and High is sponsoring an all-you-can-eat pancake and sausage breakfast from 8-10 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 22, at Applebee’s in Seaford. The cost is $5, and all proceeds benefit the wrestling team. Wrestlers are selling tickets prior to the event, and will serve at the breakfast. 410-677-5142. Coupon Booklets for Local Restaurants Benefitting Kindness of Strangers Fund LORA (Local Owners Restaurant Association) coupon booklets are now being sold, with proceeds going to the Kindness of Strangers Fund. Kindness of Strangers (KOS) is a fund established to assist families in purchasing therapeutic/adaptive equipment for their children with special needs ages birth-21. The coupon booklets are $25, and $20 of that amount goes into the KOS fund. Five dollars goes to Junior Achievement, which printed the booklet. The booklet is worth more than $200 with locally owned restaurants such as Market Street, Sobo's, Breaktime, Red Roost, Boonies, Adam's and others. Use all the coupons and your name will be entered to win cash prizes which will be drawn at Pork in the Park. This is a great way to help others. Call Lori Thompson at 410-677-5250 or e-mail her at lthompso@wcboe.org to purchase a booklet. Available Now Kids of Honor Gift Cards Viva Espresso If you eat/drink at Viva Espresso coffee shop on College Avenue, please consider buying a gift card to use for your purchases. Viva Espresso now has a Kids of Honor branded gift card for sale there. You just buy it at face value and use it for your purchases. Nancy Dix, owner of Viva Espresso, donates a portion of all sales to Kids of Honor - a win/win situation! You can re-load the card when it gets low or runs out. The cards also make great gifts for dog/cat sitters, birthdays, holidays, get well gifts, mail-carriers, etc.

Coming Up Soon on the Wicomico School Calendar (Updated 11/16/09)

Wicomico County Board of Education — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 14:27:51 -0500

Tuesday, Nov. 24 Annual Light’s On Event at Barnes & Noble STARS Program The STARS after school program will be having its annual "Light's On" event at the Barnes & Noble store in Salisbury from 5:30-8 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 24. "Light's On" is a nationwide celebration to honor the importance of after school programs and highlight the achievements of children who are engaged in after school learning activities. At our event, we have the kids from each of the 14 STARS school sites, parents/guardians and community members participating in games, light refreshments, drawings for prizes, and listening to local celebrity readers. 410-677-5287 Saturday, Nov. 28 The Winter Wonderland of Lights lighting ceremony will be held Saturday, Nov. 28th in the Salisbury City Park. Festivities will begin at 5 p.m. There will be performances by students from the Wicomico County Public Schools, Feet of Fire dance troupe, the Community Band, singing, and a special visit from Santa. Viva Espresso will have coffee and baked goods for sale. Children 10 and under are invited to visit our information booth for a free chance to be the child who "turns on" the lights. Please join us for this wonderful holiday tradition. Call Kim Hudson at 410-219-5442 with any questions. Saturday, Dec. 5 College Preparation Event University System of Maryland's Way2GoMaryland event will be held on the morning of Dec. 5 at Chesapeake College in Wye Mills. This event is designed for sixth- to 10th-graders and their parents/guardians, to get them thinking about college. Students from public, private and home schools are welcome. On-site registration and check-in will begin at 9 a.m. in the Todd Performing Arts Center; the formal program will get underway at 10 a.m. with a panel discussion (current USM students and an admissions office representative), Q&A, and door prizes, followed by a college fair and free bag lunch. Information is now available in school guidance offices and public libraries; the deadline for registration is Nov. 20. Registration is also available online at: http://www.way2gomaryland.org/Dec5.php Wednesday, Dec. 9 Wicomico County Math League Meet at Mardela Middle and High School, after school Thursday, Dec. 10 ESOL Registration The Wicomico County Adult Learning Center will hold ESOL registration on Thursday, Dec. 10, from 10 a.m.-noon and from 6-8 p.m. to prepare for winter classes. The winter ESOL program is scheduled to run from Jan. 4-March 18 at the Wicomico County Adult Learning Center located at 224 Philip Morris Drive, Suite 300 Philmore Commons. Classes are free. For further information, please call Denean Jones-Ward of the Wicomico Adult Learning Center at 410-749-3217. Saturday, Jan. 9 LEGO Events A LEGO Qualifying Tournament and LEGO Building Contest will be held at Salisbury Middle School from approximately 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. More details to come! Saturday, Jan. 23 STEM Saturday “Game Maker,” the second in a year-long series of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) Saturday events designed to provide extended learning opportunities in the STEM fields while generating students' interests in these disciplines. "Game Maker," an introduction to programming, creating characters and objects in a virtual environment much like modern animated film or video graphics, will run from 10 a.m.-noon Jan. 23 at Salisbury Middle School. The program is open to all Wicomico students in grades 6-8. There is no charge but advance registration is required. To register contact Gretchen Boggs at gboggs@wcboe.org or at 410-677-5149. Upcoming topics include: Building Bridges to the Future (exploring basic engineering principles of shape, materials and forces to design a structurally sound bridge), 10 a.m.-noon Feb. 13 at Salisbury Middle; There's No Place Like Home (exploring habitats and endangered species), 10 a.m.-noon March 13 at the Salisbury Zoo; and Learning Science Through Research (a trip to Horn Point Environmental Research Lab in Cambridge; participants become lab scientists for a day using ocean science to explore basic scientific principles), 9 a.m.-2 p.m. April 10, students depart from and return to Salisbury Middle. Monday, Jan. 25-Thursday, Jan. 28 Registration for Evening High School Building E, Wicomico High School Registration for Evening High School’s spring semester will take place starting Monday, Jan. 25, in Building E of Wicomico High School. Registration will be held from 4-7 p.m. Jan. 25, 26 and 28, and from 4-6 p.m. Jan. 27. Students wishing to enroll in Evening High School should bring birth certificate, Social Security card, proof of residency (any utility bill or rent/mortgage statement), and transcript (from last school attended). Students who attend another Wicomico County high school during the day and who wish to attend Evening High School at night must bring in the blue form, which must be completed by the guidance counselor. 410-677-4537.

Highlighted Events This Week in Wicomico Schools (Updated 3:30 p.m. 11/16/09)

Wicomico County Board of Education — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 14:25:43 -0500

Monday, Nov. 16 Family Portal Goes Live Wicomico County Public Schools As American Education Week begins, Wicomico has launched its new Family Portal for parents/guardians who have signed up and received a password. The Family Portal will provide a window into grades, assignments, attendance and other information for students in grades 3-12. For more information, please check with your student’s school. Sunday, Nov. 15-Saturday, Nov. 21 American Education Week All Wicomico County Public Schools Schools will welcome hundreds of parents, grandparents and other guests during this year's celebration of American Education Week. This annual spotlight on public education has as its theme "Great Public Schools: A Basic Right and Our Responsibility." For more information, please check with your student's school. Information about activities in many Wicomico schools is listed below. Beaver Run Elementary: 16th- Kids On the Block Assembly 1:15- 2:15 17th Retired Educator's Breakfast 9:30 17th- I Can Choose Assembly 10:00/2:00 18th- Multi Cultural Show 10;00/2:00. 20th- Kids on the Block 1:15 School Spirit Day Blue/Gold Charles H. Chipman Elementary: Donuts for Dads Nov. 17 8:30 Delmar Elementary: Honor Day Assemblies 11-17-11/18 National Elementary Honor Society Induction - 11/19 (Dr. Fredericksen is guest speaker) East Salisbury Elementary: Tuesday, Nov. 17: East Salisbury will begin the morning by completing the visit from Mobil Dentist Lab. This activity will provide on-site dental services to students who have parental consent. On that evening, the school will host a School wide Title I Night . A light meal will be provided to our families at 5 p.m. At 6 p.m. there will be Family Portal training, followed by the First Term Quarterly Awards assembly at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 18: Monthly school wide DEAR (Drop Everything and Read) @ 3 p.m. Popcorn will be served. Fruitland Intermediate Nov. 13th - 20th - Book Fair every day during Media class Nov. 17th - Family Reading and Math Night, session 2, 4-5 Nov. 20th - Family Fun and Fitness Night 6-8 p.m. at Fruitland Primary for both schools Fruitland Primary 16-20 - American Education Week & Book Fair 20 - PTA Family Fun & Fitness Night (6:00 -8:00 p.m.) Glen Avenue Elementary At Glen Avenue Elementary, our school, in particular the Media Specialist, will be running the Book Fair. The theme is "Destination Book Fair...Read Around the World." It will take place during American Education Week, November 16th-20th. Each morning we will be providing treats for the honored group. On Monday, we will be hosting Muffins for Moms from 8:30-9:30a.m.. On Tuesday, Donuts for Dads 8:30-9:30a.m.. Wednesday is Grandparents Day 8:30-9:30a.m.. Thursday is Extended Family Day 8:30-9:30a.m.. Friday is Family Food Day where the child will be able to join their family in the cafeteria for a hot meal that the faculty members will be providing. That will occur from 8:30-9:30a.m. On Tuesday, Nov. 17, the Book Fair will be open for evening hours from 4:30-7:30 p.m. This is also our PTA awards ceremony to honor students who had academic success during Term 1. Dinner will be provided and there will be a Fall skit performed by the students from the Looping Team. During the week of Nov. 16th-20th, is our Maryland Canned Food Drive, run by our student council. Students will be bringing in canned food or non-perishable food. Homeroom teachers will keep track of the students who bring in cans, throughout the week, and those students' names will be placed in a drawing to receive a free book from the Book Fair, with the book purchased by the school. To wrap up American Education Week, our Lady Steppers step team will be performing at Salisbury Middle School Nov. 21 along with other schools step teams from the county as part of a fundraiser to benefit the American Cancer Society. Friday, Nov. 20 8:30 - 9:30 a.m.: Our staff will prepare breakfast for parents during American Education Week. North Salisbury Elementary: North Salisbury is scheduled to have the Agriculture Mobile Lab at school throughout American Education Week. The lab will be on site to provide hands-on lessons and activities for third grade students directly related to Maryland's rich background in agriculture. Monday, Nov. 16 at 5:30, North Salisbury will provide a second opportunity for parents to come out for the Family Portal Training. This meeting will be held in the school's Conference Room. Friday, Nov. 20, our third-grade magnet students will host their Annul Economics Expo. Each third-grade student, as a result of the unit of study on Economics, has developed an original product or service, created advertisements, and will offer their product or service for sale at the Expo. At the Expo, which showcases the students’ original and unique goods and services, guests will be given school-generated play money (Kinnamon Kash) to purchase the items offered by the students, so that students can evaluate the success of their product or service in the marketplace. Pemberton Elementary Nov. 16 - 20 - Grade 5 Student Leaders Greet Visitors during American Education Week Nov. 19 - Grade 4 Students Visit Discovery Center on Pocomoke River Nov. 20 - PTA Harvest Party and Skate Night (6:30 pm to 8:30 pm) Pinehurst Elementary 16-20 – American Education Week Donuts for Dads & Muffins for Moms Prince Street Elementary Nov. 17. - Family Portal training (9 and 10 a.m. and 1 p.m - Media Center) Nov. 18 - Title I Reading and Math night/ PTA book fair Nov. 19 - PTA book Fair Nov. 20 - CAPs assembly (celebrating Achievement Program) to recognize academic success from reports cards sent home on the 12th Westside Primary School From Nov. 16-20, during American Education Week, Westside Primary will have some special events. Book Fair during American Education Week Monday - Friday, November 16-20. From Monday-Thursday, workshops will be held from 2-3 p.m. in the guidance room: Monday: Raising Money Smart Kids (Monday), with a representative from PNC Bank presenting strategies parents can use to help their kids become wise savers and spenders Tuesday: Math Professional Development Coach Deb Panicucci will share parenting tips on helping students become more successful mathematicians Wednesday: Reading strategies with Reading Coach Ellen Burton, with parenting tips on helping children become independent readers Thursday: Internet Savvy Parents, with Tech Professional Development Coach Karen Apolenis sharing pointers on how to help children navigate the Internet, with tips and popular educational web sites for parents/guardians to use with their children On Friday, Nov. 20, kindergarten will present an assembly in the cafeteria at 2 p.m. for parents and community. They will sing songs and perform skits related to their current Family Units in the areas of Social Studies and reading. Westside Intermediate School Grandparents day, Nov. 20, with Fat Boys catering lunch for all adults beginning at 11:00am and ending at 1:30pm. Grade 2 will be sharing how the arts can be integrated in all curriculum areas. Friday, Nov. 20th a rap up activity with a short song presentation for parents and a Thanksgiving Feast. Grade 3 will be reading "Trickster Tales", beginning multiplication strategies, and in science and social studies studying Economics. Nov. 19th presentation on the economics of Perdue by Mr. Bonenberger. The Fourth Grade Team has planned a fun-filled week of lessons that will focus on our theme of Native Americans. Lessons will include a variety of engaging activities leading to our Native America Pow Wow on Friday, Nov. 20. Grade 5 will work all week on rockets. Tuesday, Nov. 17 will visit the Smithsonian in Washington to visit the rocket museum. Friday morning the students will be designing and building paper rockets. The afternoon around 2:00 pm is the big launch. Mr. Rick Varner from NASA educational facility in Greenbelt, MD and our local VA. engineers will all be present to help with the activities. The fifth grade theme for the week, "Launch into American Education Week". Safety Patrols will be collecting canned goods and shelf items for our local shelters and we will have our angel tree for our less fortunate families. November 17 and 18 are Westside Intermediate nights at CoCo's fun house in Salisbury for our PTA family activity. Willards Elementary Nov. 17, 7 p.m. – Willards Elementary hosts the quarterly Board of Education Awards & Recognitions Night . Nov. 19 - Grandparents' Day - Grandparents visit and take part in classroom activities and then have lunch in the gym with their grandchildren Nov. 20 - PTA's Turkey Trot - Parents/friends/relatives pledge money and the students walk, jog, or run for 15 or 30 minutes, depending on the grade level. Coincides with the Team Nutrition Grant. Bennett Middle School Bennett Middle will have its first quarter PBIS incentive, Team Challenge, on Nov. 20. Team Challenge is a series of events and activities in which students compete against their grade-level peers. In order to attend and/or participate, students have to earn 40 stamps in their agenda. Students may earn stamps from any staff member when they demonstrate respect, responsibility or achievement. Salisbury Middle On Nov. 16, Salisbury Middle will have a PTA Visitation and Family CSI Night. PTA classroom visitation will occur from 4:30-5:30 p.m., with dinner being served by our PTA from 5:30-6 p.m. Our CSI activities will run from 6-7:30 p.m. From 10-11:15 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 17, Keith Koehler from NASA Space Flight Facility will speak to students in Chad Pavlekovich's 8th grade STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) Academy science class at Salisbury Middle School. He will speak on space exploration, rockets, space imagery and careers in the field. The "CSI After Party" will be a night of mysterious fun and will serve as a follow up event for the SMS Family CSI Night, which will be held at Salisbury Middle on the evening of Monday, Nov. 16. The CSI After Part on Nov. 19 at Barnes & Noble will give students and families a time to relive the mystery with mystery books, games, scavenger hunts and more. Anyone presenting an SMS voucher (distributed through SMS) will help the school; a percentage of the net sale will be donated to the school. Friday, Nov. 20, from 9 pm-10:30 pm, "New Moon Party" at Barnes & Noble for Salisbury Middle. The "New Moon Party," which will take place on opening night of the movie, Twilight Saga: New Moon, will be a celebration of all things related to the Twilight Saga. From discussion groups to games and memorabilia it promises to be a party to die for! At Barnes & Noble. Anyone presenting an SMS voucher (distributed through SMS) will help the school; a percentage of the net sale will be donated to the school. Wicomico Middle School The school encourages classroom visits throughout the day, each day of the week, from 8:30 - 2:00. Entrance is through the front door where parents will be greeted by one of our teachers and guided to the scheduled classroom. Our grade level award assemblies will be held on Monday, November 16, throughout the day. Our Family Portal open computer lab will be on Tuesday, November 17, from 3:15 - 5:15 p.m.. We will guide parents who will be able to access students' grades and averages through the Parent Portal application of our student information management system. Our Drama Club plays will be Wednesday, Nov. 18, and Friday, November 20, from 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. Mardela Middle and High School Talent Show and Spaghetti Dinner November 20th. Mardela's students and staff will display their talents for the community in this "Return to the 80's Talent Show." There will also be a silent auction. Tickets are $8 for adults and $5 for children 10 and under. No tickets will be sold at the door. The Edgeucators will perform during intermission. Contact information: Mardela Middle and High 410-677-5142. Sharon Harcum, talent show director, sharcum@bwave.com. Lesia Pruitt, dinner coordinator, pruitt25@comcast.net. Dawn Carey, silent auction coordinator, acarey889@comcast.net. BingoMania 51: Nov. 21, Wicomico Youth & Civic Center. Doors open at 5pm, Early Bird Play at 6pm, Regular Play at 7:30p. Sponsored by the Mardela Middle and High School Band Parents. Proceeds support Mardela Bands and Bandfront with the purchase of music, instruments, equipment, uniforms, transportation, scholarships, and other means that provide for the student. 410-677-5142. James M. Bennett High School The James M. Bennett High World Language Department and the Class of 2011 are sponsoring an International Dessert Theater Cabaret on Friday, Nov. 20 from 7-9:30 p.m. Entertainment by staff and students in many languages will be showcased: singing, dancing, poetry recitation, instrumentals and short vignettes in English, Spanish, French, German, Korean, and Hungarian. Tickets are $5 per person and may be purchased in advance from performers or at lunch shifts; they will also be available at the door for $6. 410-677-5141 Parkside High School Parkside will open its doors on Nov. 16-20 for American Education Week. We are asking all parents to sign in on the computer in the main office. On Tuesday, November 17th we will have the Fall Sports Award Assembly at 1:00 in the auditorium. Make up pictures will be taken on Monday, November 16 during student’s English classes. Please check with your students for any special activities going on in their classes. Wicomico High School Cadets from the JROTC program will assist disabled veterans, help serve meals and present the colors at the Golden Corral Veterans Dinner, 7 p.m. Monday, Nov. 16. Tuesday, Nov. 17 Board of Education Awards & Recognitions Night Willards Elementary School The first Wicomico County Board of Education Awards & Recognitions Night of the 2009-10 school year will be held at 7 p.m. Nov. 17 at Willards Elementary School to honor outstanding students, teachers, administrators, schools, programs and community partners. Wednesday, 4-6 p.m. Superintendent's Open Door Session The next Superintendent's Open Door Session is scheduled for 4-6 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 18, in the Administrative Conference Room at the Board of Education Office. Open Door Sessions provide the opportunity for people to meet one-on-one with the superintendent. People may express concerns, offer comment, or ask questions on any issue involving Wicomico schools. No appointment is needed. Open Door Sessions will also be held from 4-6 p.m. on these additional dates: Dec. 16, Jan. 20, Feb. 24, March 24, April 21 and May 26. All Open Door Sessions will take place in the Administrative Conference Room of the Board of Education at Mt. Hermon Road and Long Avenue, Salisbury. For information, please call 410-677-4495

More than 2, 200 Wicomico Elementary Students Receive FluMist Vaccine; Statewide Suspension ...

Wicomico County Board of Education — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 15:11:12 -0500

When Maryland health officials suspended the administration of all seasonal FluMist vaccinations in elementary schools, students at two Wicomico County schools — Beaver Run Elementary and Fruitland Primary — did not receive the FluMist vaccination because of the state’s suspension of the program. Parents/guardians at those two schools were notified by the school system’s ParentLink rapid notification system. On Thursday, Oct. 1, the Wicomico County Health Department announced the suspension of the program, citing the need for a monthlong interval between administering two live viruses — the FluMist live virus for seasonal flu and the FluMist form of the H1N1 vaccine. All other schools with students in grades kindergarten through fifth grade already held their FluMist clinics for students. Through the 2009 FluMist vaccination effort by the Wicomico County Health Department and Wicomico County Public Schools, more than 2,200 students K-5 were vaccinated between Sept. 24 and Oct. 1. "We are anticipating receipt of the H1N1 influenza vaccine in the near future," Lori Brewster, health officer in Wicomico, said Thursday. "FluMist (for seasonal flu) is a live virus, as is the intranasal form of the H1N1 vaccine. There must be a four-week interval between the two live viruses, which is the rationale behind the suspension." Approximately 400 children at the two schools were signed up to receive the FluMist vaccine. The Health Department said parents/guardians can have their child vaccinated with the injectable form of the seasonal vaccine through their pediatrician, or the county Health Department, Brewster said. A parent who wants their child to receive the injectable form of the seasonal flu vaccine at the Wicomico County Health Department, also can call 410-543-6943. Dates for the H1N1 vaccination clinics will be posted on the Wicomico County Health Department website at www.wicomicohealth.org, and on the Public Health Information Line, at 410-543-6943, as soon as the H1N1 vaccine arrives and clinic schedules are determined.

October Edition of "Working Together for Children" and Superintendent's October ...

Wicomico County Board of Education — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 14:39:24 -0500

A special October edition of "Working Together for Children" will debut at 6:31 p.m. tonight (Thursday, Oct. 1) on PAC 14 (Comcast Channel 14). It will also air at 12:15 p.m. Friday, and at noon and 7:15 p.m. Saturday. This month's show features Superintendent of Schools Dr. John Fredericksen and “Working Together” co-host Aaron Deal in a chat with a group of Wicomico students. The students talk about their best memories from the 2008-09 school year, what they like – and don’t like – about school, their favorite teachers, things they’d like changed about school, and why education is important to them. This special edition of "Working Together for Children" will air throughout the month of October on PAC 14. “Working Together” airs regularly at 6:30 p.m. Thursdays and noon Saturdays; visit pac14.org for additional times. PAC 14 also streams its programming live on its web site at www.pac14.org, so viewers can visit the web site to "tune in" on line when the show is on the air. DVDs of many past "Working Together" shows are now available at the Wicomico Public Library. Also new from Wicomico Schools: Visit http://www.wcboe.org/video to watch the superintendent’s October webcast or see past webcasts and other videos

Governor Martin O'Malley Appoints Members to Wicomico County Board of Education

Wicomico County Board of Education — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 15:59:21 -0500

New Board of Education members Donald L. Fitzgerald and Larry W. Dodd were sworn in Tuesday, Oct. 6, by the Clerk of the Court. Governor Martin O’Malley on Sept. 29 announced the appointments Fitzgerald and Dodd to the Board of Education for Wicomico County. Board members are appointed to five-year terms on the Board of Education. Governor O’Malley said he was proud to appoint Fitzgerald and Dodd to the Wicomico County Board of Education. Each of the appointees “brings a wealth of knowledge, experience and expertise, and represents the diversity of our State. I am confident that each appointee possesses the skill and the leadership necessary to ensure every child receives the quality public education they deserve. Even in these difficult times, we must continue to protect our investments in public education to ensure that every child receives a world class education and a better future. The people of Maryland are our greatest asset and our continued economic strength depends upon our ability to invest in them, and prepare our children today for the jobs of tomorrow.” Donald L. Fitzgerald is a retired Vietnam Veteran and mechanic. In 1966, he was drafted into the U.S. Army and served with the 227th Aviation Battalion, 1st Air Cavalry in Vietnam. In 1967, he served as Platoon Sergeant for the Signal Corps at Fort Knox, Kentucky and in 1968 was honorably discharged. From 1965 to 2002, Mr. Fitzgerald worked at E.I. DuPont where he worked as a Service Operator and then Mechanic. From 2000 to 2002, he served as President of SNEC, an independent worker’s union. Mr. Fitzgerald attended Wicomico High School and graduated in 1964. He is a member of Grace United Methodist Church, the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 194, the Moose Lodge 654 and the Optimist Club of Salisbury. He is a resident of Salisbury. Mr. Fitzgerald coaches girls’ varsity softball and is a member of the Wicomico County Softball Federation. Larry W. Dodd – Lieutenant Dodd -- is a Firefighter and Paramedic at the City of Salisbury Fire Department where he has worked since 1994. Lieutenant Dodd is also an MFRI EMT Instructor and Fire Instructor at the University of Maryland. From 2002 to 2006, he served as a member of the Wicomico County Council and from 2001 to 2005, he served as President of the MIEMSS Region IV E.M.S. Council. Mr. Dodd received his Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences at Salisbury State University in 2000 and his Masters of Science in Applied Health Physiology from Salisbury University in 2004. He attended the University of Maryland Institute for Governmental Services Academy of Excellence from 2001 to 2005. He has two children attending Wicomico County Public Schools and is a member of the Beaver Run Elementary School PTA. He is a resident of Salisbury.

Bands Will Take the Field Saturday, Oct. 17 for 2009 Delmarvacade Of Bands

Wicomico County Board of Education — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 15:33:09 -0500

Lights. Music. Marching. One of the most exciting and uplifting nights of the marching band season is coming up Saturday, Oct. 17, when Parkside High School and the Parkside Band Boosters present the 2009 Delmarvacade of Bands at Wicomico County Stadium. High school marching bands from throughout the region will fill Wicomico County Stadium that night with the exciting sights and sounds of their field show as bands tune up for the impending championship events. Between bands, parents, and spectators, the Delmarvacade is expected to draw thousands of people to the stadium. Bands will compete starting at 6:30 p.m., with each band performing the kind of field show people are accustomed to seeing at halftime of football games. Each performance will last seven to 12 minutes, and a new band will take the field about every 15 minutes. The rain date is Oct. 18. The event is sponsored by Parkside High School and its Band Boosters, with professional judges provided by the National Judges Association. Bands will be judged on every element of their field show, including both musical and visual elements, as well as the overall general effect of the show and its blending of music, marching, flags and rifles. Each band will receive a score based on a 100-point scale, and a trophy. Bands will compete in four categories, depending on the number of instrumentalists in the band. James M. Bennett High is in Group 3. Parkside High and Wicomico High School are in Group 2 although Parkside, as host, will perform but will not be judged for placement. There will be an awards ceremony at the end of the night. Marching bands often stay all evening, even after they have competed. "They support each other, even though they are rivals," says Gary Beauchamp, supervisor of fine and performing arts for Wicomico schools and the founder of the event in 1977. Students know they are competing not just against each other, but against their own previous performances, trying to make this one just a little bit better. Admission to Delmarvacade of Bands is $5 adults/$4 students and seniors, free for children under 10. A program detailing the participants, with a score sheet to keep track of how the bands are doing, is $4. Program proceeds will go to Women Supporting Women in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. For information call Kevin Zaczkiewicz, Parkside High School band director, at (410) 677-5161.

Superintendent of Schools Dr. John Fredericksen Schedules Open Door Sessions for 2009-10

Wicomico County Board of Education — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 09:05:48 -0500

Superintendent of Schools Dr. John Fredericksen has announced the dates for his Superintendent’s Open Door Sessions for the 2009-10 school year. The next Open Door Session will be held from 4-6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 28, in the Administrative Conference Room at the Board of Education Office. Open Door Sessions provide the opportunity for people to meet one-on-one with the superintendent. People may express concerns, offer comment, or ask questions on any issue involving Wicomico schools. No appointment is needed. Open Door Sessions will also be held from 4-6 p.m. on these additional dates: Nov. 18, Dec. 16, Jan. 20, Feb. 24, March 24, April 21 and May 26. All Open Door Sessions will take place in the Administrative Conference Room of the Board of Education at Mt. Hermon Road and Long Avenue, Salisbury. For information, please call 410-677-4495.

East Salisbury Elementary Holds Community Night at Grace United Methodist Church Tuesday, Sept. 22

Wicomico County Board of Education — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 08:58:00 -0500

The staff of East Salisbury Elementary School will hold a Community Night for East Salisbury families from 5-7 p.m. Tuesday at Grace United Methodist Church on East Church Street in Salisbury. This event will give families the chance to come out and learn about the interesting programs taking place at East Salisbury School, and to find out the ways they can be actively involved in the education of their students. A light meal will be provided to all attendees. Highlights of Community Night include: Donyelle Cottingham, mistress of ceremonies; welcome from the Rev. David Weber of Grace Church; introductions by Principal Lil Giddens and Assistant Principal Renee Hall; Salisbury Mayor Jim Ireton on community involvement; Malina Johnson and Janna Hemstreet on Family Center and STARS; Juanita Briddell on Title I; Scott Elliott on school counseling; Mandy Faist, Hemstreet and Nora Lynch on PBIS; Lynch on Accelerated Reader; Candace Pianka on First in Math; and Lorene Evans on family support. Dinner follows, with questions and answers and an evaluation to complete the evening. For information please call 410-677-5803.

September Edition of "Working Together for Children" Now Airing on PAC 14

Wicomico County Board of Education — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 12:18:51 -0500

The September edition of "Working Together for Children" is now airing on PAC 14 (Comcast Channel 14). The show is currently scheduled to air at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, 11 a.m. Friday, and 12:01 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday. This month's show features highlights from Staff Kickoff Day '09, including a rousing performance by The Edgeucators. The program also visits Wicomico High School to hear what students and their teacher thought of President Obama's speech to the nation's students. Also airing now on PAC 14 is a special 12-minute preview of Superintendent Dr. John Fredericksen's conversation with a group of Wicomico students. This preview is scheduled to air at 10:48 a.m. and 7:17 p.m. Friday, and 11:49 a.m. Saturday. The full program, host by Dr. Fredericksen and "Working Together for Children" co-host Aaron Deal, will begin airing Oct. 1 on PAC 14. "Working Together for Children" airs regularly at 6:30 p.m. Thursdays and noon Saturdays; check the Programming grid at www.pac14.org for additional times. PAC 14 also streams its programming live on its web site at www.pac14.org, so viewers can visit the web site to "tune in" on line when the show is on the air. DVDs of many past "Working Together" shows are now available at the Wicomico Public Library. "Working Together for Children" is produced monthly by the Wicomico County Public Schools for broadcast to the community on PAC 14. "Working Together" was honored with a 2007 Hometown Video Award from the Alliance for Community Media in the Educational Profile category (nonprofessional production). For further information or to give feedback, please contact Dr. Faye Wilson at 410-677-4529 or fwilson@wcboe.org.

Notes from the Sept. 8 Meeting of the Wicomico County Board of Education

Wicomico County Board of Education — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0500

The Wicomico County Board of Education at its Sept. 8 monthly meeting: Kilgore Tribute Paid tribute [attached] to former Board member Brian Kilgore for his six years of service to Wicomico County Public Schools as a member of the Board of Education. Kilgore said serving on the Board involved a great deal of work and many challenges, but, "The easiest part of serving was knowing that every single person had the best interests of the children at heart. It was an honor to have served." Superintendent's Report Heard from Superintendent of Schools Dr. John Fredericksen in his monthly report that: · Wicomico had a very successful opening of school starting Aug. 31, and that preliminary enrollment numbers show slightly higher enrollment again this year, though the official count will not be known until Sept. 30. The federal stimulus funds are finally becoming available, and the first orders have been placed using some of the funds. · Wicomico is still awaiting word from the Maryland Attorney General's Office about the school system's Maintenance of Effort plan, and is still waiting to hear from the governor's office on appointments to fill two vacancies on the Wicomico County Board of Education. · Several committees are continuing to work this fall. The School Climate Committee is preparing a presentation to the Board on a survey that could be done in November. A number of agencies are examining ways of handling persistently violent and disruptive students, including providing anti-gang programs. The dress code team has finished a first draft of its proposal, which will be given to the Board to review. A committee studying the possibility of changing the required minimum GPA for participation in extracurricular activities will meet again Sept. 14 as it puts the final touches on its recommendation. Mary Ashanti, president of the Wicomico County Chapter of the NAACP, told the Board in Public Comments that she was disappointed that a recommendation to raise the minimum GPA hasn't been made already. A Web Site Committee is continuing to explore improvements to the school system's web site at www.wcboe.org and to school web pages; check the web site for school system information. Board member Ron Willey said he spent some time on the new www.wcboe.org web site and found it more user friendly than the former site, though some schools need to bring their pages up to date. Monthly Reports Approved the monthly personnel report for certificated employees [attached] and budget transfers for June 30, 2009, and September, and received for information the monthly personnel report for classified employees [attached] and the monthly grants report. Recently funded grants include $234,072 from the Perkins Fund and $75,833 from the Lower Shore Workforce Alliance for Parkside CTE programs, $255,421 from the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) for GEAR-UP at Wicomico High, $99,873 from MSDE for the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics) pilot at Salisbury Middle, $322,000 from MSDE for the Judy Center Partnership/Wicomico Early Learning Center/Pemberton Elementary/Beaver Run Elementary, $6,550 from Wor-Wic Community College for a STEM Summer Camp for Kids, and $30,264 from MSDE for $30,714 for Maryland Model for School Readiness professional development. Fiscal 2011-2016 Capital Improvement Plan Approved the Fiscal 2011-2016 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), detailing funding plans for projects in Wicomico County Public Schools. The CIP must be submitted to the County Executive and to the Maryland Interagency Committee on Public School Construction. Once the CIP has been posted on line at the Facility Services page of www.wcboe.org in about three weeks, the public will be able to view the CIP to see that the school system has a plan for school construction that shows what the priorities are and where the money should be spent, Board Vice President L. Michelle Wright said. Approvals Approved the 403(b) Plan Document with Lincoln Financial Services, the 2009-2010 list of Persons-in-Charge of each school when the principal and assistant principal(s) are absent, and the 2009-10 Parent Advisory Committees for schools. CTE House Project Approved the 2009-10 contract with Salisbury Neighborhood Housing for the house that Parkside CTE students will build. Board member Willey hailed the project as an outstanding hands-on learning opportunity for CTE students, and Board President Mark Thompson said the CTE houses have been a wonderful part of the improvements made on Rose Street on Salisbury's west side. Bus Contract Approved the transfer of the contract for Bus 116 and paid spare bus 285 from Marie E. and Herbert W. Lowe to Marie E. and Herbert W. Lowe and their son, Samuel W. Lowe. Table of Rates for School Buses Approved the 2009-10 School Bus Reimbursement Table of Rates, with the same rates as in 2008-09. Ernie Davis, president of the Wicomico County School Bus Contractors Association, said the contractors would have appreciated knowing the approved Table of Rates before they started driving for the new school year, and asked that the dialog for next year begin now. The Board said that time was needed to analyze and discuss the Table of Rates before approving it. The Board also urged communication among all parties for next year's discussions. Bid Awards Voted to utilize Anne Arundel County's Baltimore Regional Cooperative Purchasing Committee's contract with C.N. Robinson Lighting Supply Co. for the bid for Lamps and Ballasts, Large and Specialty. Last year, approximately $52,000 was spent for this category. Awarded the contract for Moving Services to Dennis Storage Co. as the evaluated low responsive and responsible bidder. Facility Services will use this contract for moving services as needed. Budget Calendar for 2010-11 Approved a budget calendar for 2010-11, with public input sessions scheduled for Jan. 14 and May 20. Board Member Reports Heard from Board President Thompson that he has seen the school year get off to a great start, and that the Board appreciates the efforts of staff in holding August Code of Conduct and Bullying Policy meetings throughout the community. Heard from Ben Brumbley, president of the Wicomico County Council of PTAs, that the WCCPTAs' annual Legislative Night with elected officials of all levels is set for Nov. 5 at Prince Street Elementary, with a social time at 6:30 p.m. and meeting starting at 7 p.m.

Wicomico Schools Observe National Day of Service and Remembrance

Wicomico County Board of Education — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0500

On the Friday, Sept. 11 National Day of Service and Remembrance, many students and staff members of Wicomico County Public Schools joined with others throughout the country to remember those who lost their lives on 9/11 and to reflect on the contributions of those who died giving service that day. At Wicomico High, two students came up with the idea of remembrance pins and created the pins themselves with red, white and blue beads on safety pins. They then wrote a letter to the entire staff asking that staff members wear the pins on 9/11. This was particularly meaningful, Principal Lorenzo Hughes said, because a staff member, Sgt. Cameron Ball, had just returned from serving in Iraq. Here is a sampling of other National Day of Service and Remembrance Activities from around the school system: Salisbury Middle School showed a video clip in remembrance after morning announcements. The short video aimed to help ensure that students and staff would never forget. At North Salisbury Elementary, fifth-grade students presented a brief program in remembrance of 9/11 in a school-wide broadcast. The program gave a brief overview of the reason for remembering this day along with a PowerPoint presentation, music, recognition of several people who gave their lives, and a candle-lighting ceremony. Staff and students of Prince Street wore red, white, and blue on the National Day of Service and Remembrance. A moment of silence was observed during morning announcements, and various teachers reflected with students. At the Central Office, Superintendent of Schools Dr. John Fredericksen made an intercom announcement about the importance of the day. He then announced a moment of silence to give staff members to remember and reflect.

President Obama to Address Students of the United States

Wicomico County Board of Education — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0500

On Tuesday, September 8, 2009, at noon, President Obama will be addressing the students of the United States. According to the press release, "The President will challenge students to work hard, set educational goals, and take responsibility for their learning. He will also call for a shared responsibility and commitment on the part of students, parents and educators to ensure that every child in every school receives the best education possible so they can compete in the global economy for good jobs and live rewarding and productive lives as American citizens." Wicomico County teachers will decide about the appropriateness of having their students view the broadcast, and whether or how to use the broadcast as part of instruction that day. As you may be aware, the President's address has received attention in the media, both positive and negative. Teachers will send a note home if the teacher is planning to show the address as part of instruction that day. The purpose for showing the address is strictly educational, not political. Any parent/guardian has the right to opt their child out of viewing the presidential address by contacting the teacher or school administrator. Other appropriate supervised activities will be provided to children whose parents/guardians decide to exercise their right to opt their child out of watching the presidential address.

Boxer Fernando Guerrero Joins Glen Avenue Elementary for PBIS Kickoff 2 p.m. Friday

Wicomico County Board of Education — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Boxer and Wicomico County graduate Fernando Guerrero will visit Glen Avenue Elementary School in Salisbury at 2 p.m. Friday to participate in the school's kickoff assembly for its 2009-10 PBIS Program. Guerrero will talk with students about the importance of doing their best in school, of showing respect, and of practicing the positive behaviors that are the focus of the PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions & Supports) Program. Students will also hear from school staff about Chief Bucks that students can earn for positive behavior this year, as well as other incentives

Staff Kickoff Day for Wicomico County Public Schools 8 a.m. Friday, Aug. 28

Wicomico County Board of Education — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 00:00:00 -0500

More than 2,500 employees and community supporters of Wicomico County Public Schools will gather at the Wicomico Youth and Civic Center for a Staff Kickoff Day rally starting at 8 a.m. Friday, Aug. 28. The James M. Bennett High School Marching Band will play. Speakers include keynote speaker Dr. John Fredericksen, superintendent of schools; Susan Cullen of Delmar Elementary, the 2009-10 Wicomico Teacher of the Year; and Mark Thompson, president of the Wicomico County Board of Education; and Rick Pollitt, Wicomico County Executive. The rally will end with a special musical performance by the school system's rock 'n' roll band, The Edgeucators. This annual event gives every school system employee - teachers, bookkeepers, principals, cafeteria workers, supervisors, custodians, media specialists and others - an opportunity to come together before the first day of school to get energized for the arrival of students and to hear common messages. Elected officials and representatives of some of the many organizations that serve as partners in public education in Wicomico County have also been invited to attend. Schools throughout Wicomico County, as well as the Central Office, will be closed early Friday morning so that employees may attend the Staff Kickoff Day rally. Staff members will report to their schools and offices at 10:30 a.m. to continue preparations for the opening of schools on Monday, Aug. 31.

Schedule of Open Houses for Wicomico County Public Schools

Wicomico County Board of Education — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Wicomico County Schools will hold open houses Aug. 25-28 in preparation for the opening of the 2009-10 school year on Monday, Aug. 31. A complete schedule of open houses for Wicomico Schools is below.

Students in grades 1-6 and grade 9 will attend school on Aug. 31. (Exceptions are that all grades will attend at Pittsville Elementary and Middle, and only grade 6 will attend at Mardela Middle and High.) All students in grades 1-12 will be in school Tuesday, Sept. 1. Kindergarten and prekindergarten students will report as scheduled by the assigned school.

Beaver Run Elementary: Aug. 27 1-4 p.m.

Charles H. Chipman Elementary: Aug. 27. Open House at school 2-3 p.m., followed by a picnic from 3-4:30 p.m. at Lake Street Park with Chipman™s partner school, Glen Avenue Elementary.

Delmar Elementary: Aug. 28 1:30-3 p.m.

East Salisbury Elementary: Open House/Picnic Aug. 28 from 1:30-4 p.m.

Fruitland Primary: Aug. 28 1:30-2:30 p.m.

Fruitland Intermediate: Open House Aug. 28, 2-3 p.m.

Glen Avenue Elementary: Aug. 27 1-2 p.m., with a community picnic with partner school Charles H. Chipman Elementary from 3-4:30 p.m. at the Lake Street Park.

North Salisbury Elementary: Aug. 28 2-4 p.m. with Buster the Bus as official greeter, free school supplies to all students who attend, and school partners Barnes & Noble, Sonic, Olive Garden, and Texas Roadhouse on hand to show their support of the school. The Boy Scout Recruitment Team and PTA Officers will also be there.

Northwestern Elementary: Aug. 28, 3-4 p.m.

Pemberton Elementary: Aug. 27, 1:30-3:30 p.m.

Pinehurst Elementary: Aug. 27 3-4 p.m.

Pittsville Elementary and Middle: Aug. 25 for Middle School 7-8:30 p.m., Aug. 26 7-8:30 p.m. for Elementary

Westside Intermediate: Aug. 28 from 2:30-3:30 p.m. WIS staff will be visiting school families in the areas of Bivalve, Tyaskin, Nanticoke, Whitehaven, and Waterview at the Westside Community Center in Bivalve on Aug. 26 from 6-7 p.m. Light refreshments will be served and Westside Primary staff will be joining WIS staff.

Westside Primary: Aug. 28, 1-2 p.m. Joining WIS staff to visit school families in the areas of Bivalve, Tyaskin, Nanticoke, Whitehaven, and Waterview at the Westside Community Center in Bivalve on Aug. 26 from 6-7 p.m. Light refreshments will be served.

West Salisbury Elementary: Aug. 28, 2-4 p.m.

Willards Elementary: PTA Open House Night Aug. 27, 6:30-8 p.m.

Wicomico Early Learning Center: Aug. 27 1-3 p.m.

Bennett Middle School: PTSA Back-to-School Night/Open House Aug. 27 5-7 p.m.

Salisbury Middle: 6th-grade Open House Aug. 27, 7 p.m.

Wicomico Middle: Aug. 27, 1-4 p.m., parents may acquire student schedules

Mardela Middle and High: Back-to-School BBQ Aug. 27, 4:30-6:30 p.m.

James M. Bennett High School: Open House/Back-to-School Night for freshman and parents/guardians, 6:30 p.m.

Parkside High: Back-to-School Night Aug. 26. From 5:30-6:30 p.m., schedules handed out. From 6:30-7 p.m., PTA business meeting. From 7-8:30 p.m., teacher visitation.

Wicomico High: Freshmen Back-to-School Night Aug. 27, 5-7 p.m.

Wicomico County Evening High School: Registration for fall term begins Aug. 31, 4-7 p.m., continues Mon-Thur through Sept. 10. Classes begin Sept. 8.

Choices: Aug. 27, 4-6 p.m.

Notes from the Aug. 11 Monthly Meeting of the Wicomico County Board of Education

Wicomico County Board of Education — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 00:00:00 -0500

The Wicomico County Board of Education at its monthly meeting on Aug. 11: Heard from Superintendent of Schools Dr. John Fredericksen that: - Schools are getting ready, curriculum work is ongoing, meetings are being held on how best to serve some of Wicomico's most challenging students, building improvements are taking place throughout the school system, particularly at the new James M. Bennett High, and staff training is taking place as the new school year approaches. The latest news is posted at www.wcboe.org. - Word is anticipated soon from the Maryland Attorney General's Office on the school system's maintenance of effort agreement with Wicomico County. - The Board is waiting for the governor to announce two appointees to the Board of Education. Sue Hitch, whose term ended June 30, is continuing to serve until her replacement is named. Brian Kilgore resigned on June 1 and the replacement will fulfill the remaining four years of the term. - Regulations for using federal stimulus funds arrived that day and are being reviewed. - Final quotes ranging from $7,000-$32,000 have been received for conducting a school climate survey whose results would be compared with the results of other surveys. The survey committee will look at the proposals for different types of surveys. - He will be sitting down with a group of students Aug. 12 at Salisbury Middle School for a videotaped group interview that will air later on PAC 14. Reports Received for information the monthly classified personnel matters report, updated reports on competitive grant applications for 2008-09 and 2009-10, and the July 14 project listing report from Facility Services. Board members praised the comprehensive project listing report. A summer projects update will be available soon. The Board also approved the monthly personnel report for certificated employees and August budget transfers, some of which will require County Council approval. Promotions and Appointments Approved the appointment of Jackie Deal and the promotion of Cynthia Waters to serve as pupil personnel workers, and the ratification of the superintendent's appointment of Stacy Messick as coordinator of employee relations. Pre-Qualification Approved the pre-qualification of a number of professional architectural and engineering firms for miscellaneous small scale projects (fees under $100,000). Tuition Approved the tuition rate schedule for 2009-10 for non-resident students, both in-state and out-of-state, and for non-resident CTE students. Bid Awards Awarded the bid for miscellaneous masonry to Cain Masonry Inc. as the primary vendor and Hayward Masonry as the secondary vendor as the low responsive and responsible bidders. In 2008-09, approximately $25,000 was spent on miscellaneous masonry projects. Voted to utilize the National IPA DuPage County Contract #P08-02 with Canon Business Solutions to lease three color copiers to replace similar existing color copiers. Voted to utilize the Eastern Shore of Maryland's Educational Consortium Food Service Committee contract with Schmidt Baking Company Bread Products for Food Services bread products. The annual contract value for the school system is $139,100. Awarded the contract for ice cream products to Jack & Jill Ice Cream, through a unit price contract with the Eastern Shore of Maryland's Educational Consortium Food Service Committee. The annual contract value is $62,000 for Wicomico Food Services. Voted to purchase food services equipment from several different vendors as the low responsive and responsible bidders in order to replace some Food Services equipment with available American Recovery & Reinvestment Act ($97,000) and Food Services funds. Awarded the Bid for General Materials of Instruction -- Unit Price and Catalog Contract to School Specialty as the low responsive and responsible bidder, at an annual contract value of $315,000. Food Services Budget Approved the Food Services budget for the 2009-10 school year. The balanced budget of $6,830,498 includes a $750,000 transfer from the school system's general fund (subsidizing food services is a common practice for school systems) and does not include any meal price increases for students. In addition to the traditional lunch and breakfast programs, Food Services provides an after-school snack program for some locations, the Maryland Meals for Achievement breakfast program in several schools, a summer food service program at 17 sites, and enterprise catering. Planned Transitioning of Adult Basic Education Voted to begin planning the transitioning of the school system's Adult Basic Education program to a successor agency effective June 30, 2010, when the current state grant expires. Offered for many years with grant support from the Maryland State Department of Education, Adult Basic Education is now shifting to the Maryland Department of Labor, Licensing & Regulation as a program that is closely aligned with job training. Wicomico will inform the secretary of Labor, Licensing & Regulation of its intention not to continue the program so the state can prepare a request for proposal to determine a successor sponsoring agency. The school system will help ensure an orderly transition because the program is a valuable one, but it will be delivered better by an organization with a closer focus on jobs, Dr. Fredericksen said. In many communities across the country, adult basic education is now delivered at a community college. The school system will focus on its K-12 program. Bus Contracts Awarded bus contracts to Eric Morris (bus 20, serving Pemberton and West Salisbury elementary schools) and Bruce Lewis (bus 502, serving Willards Elementary, Pittsville Elementary and Middle, and Beaver Run Elementary). Board Member Reports Heard from Board President Mark Thompson that he has been visiting schools this summer and that schools are eager to have Board members visit -- though not for full tours on the first couple of days of the school year. Heard from President Thompson that the Wicomico County Board of Education will be recognized Aug. 20 with a certificate of appreciation as an employer who supports employees in the Guard and Reserves. Learned from board members Robin Holloway and Sue Hitch that there is area-wide difficulty in scheduling well visits to doctors because of a shortage of doctors due to the area's growing population as well as the recent, tragic death of Dr. Jose Alvarado, father of former student representative to the Board David Alvarado. Mrs. Holloway said the shortage of available well visits may be an issue if students aren't able to get their physicals for participating in sports. Heard from Dr. Margo Handy, Assistant Superintendent of Instruction and Support Services, that the school system is working closely with the Health Department to ensure it has the latest information on H1N1 for schools, custodial staff and school nurses. The school system will share consistent, current information on protective measures with school families.

Fund Transfers

Wicomico County Board of Education — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Fund transfers are a part of operating school systems in Maryland. The schools operate on a‚ financing system based on prior year enrollments, estimates, and trend lines. Funding is determined by State Statute, Federal Funding, and local County allocations.

Budgeting the money is based on required coding of revenues and expenditures in 15 distinct categories (compared to the typical three categories for a typical county department) and dozens of detail sub-groupings. Detail note - the Board of Education is a separate body politic, created by State legislation, funded in part by county taxes and reporting directly to the Maryland State Department of Education and the United States Department of Education.

As the year progresses, things change and we report all the changes as they occur. This means that if substitute employees cost a few percent more than estimated or fuel‚ costs a little less, we need to make transfers. This means that if the funding originally planned for …regular‚ employees services is now required to be provided through …contracted‚ employees, we need to make transfers. Transfers do not increase overall expenditures; they adjust the same number of dollars to fit changes in operations and regulations.

The WCBOE has consistently taken an assertive position on protecting the bottom line over expending every line item completely. If a school system were not provided the flexibility to transfer funds between categories, as provided by in law, we would be forced to increase many line item budgets, if not all of them, to cover every possible scenario that might occur. This type of budgeting would result in inflated balances.

Instead, we develop budgets based upon projected need fine-tuned by using historical data to support our requests.We secure contract discounts through every means available, negotiate beneficial terms wherever possible, and aggressively manage our accounts payable to capture payment discounts offered. This method of budgeting saves the school system money.

When these funds have been saved, we have agreed with the County Council that part of the savings ($300,000) must be maintained to support WCBOEžs subsequent yearžs budget and any remaining balance be transferred to a School Construction Savings Fundfor WCBOEmajor capital projects to maintain or‚ improve facilities. These projects have been reviewed by appropriate committees and are on a schedule for completion.‚

Transfers July3109

Start of the 2009-2010 School Year

Wicomico County Board of Education — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Looking Ahead to the Start of the 2009-2010 School Year: Classes Begin Aug. 31 for Most Students of Wicomico County Public Schools

Wicomico County Public Schools will open the 2009-10 school year on Monday, Aug. 31. Students in grades 1-6 and grade 9 will attend that day. (Exceptions are that all grades will attend at Pittsville Elementary and Middle, and only grade 6 will attend at Mardela Middle and High.) All students in grades 1-12 will be in school Tuesday, Sept. 1.Kindergarten and prekindergarten students will report as scheduled by the assigned school.Wicomico schools will mail out letters with each studentžs teacher assignments on Tuesday August 18. (Middle and high school students will receive their homeroom assignment; the full schedule will be given out either at the schoolžs open house or on the first day of school.) Open houses will be held during the week of Aug. 24-28.Schools will be in session this fall except Sept. 7 (Labor Day); Oct. 16 and 19 (MSTA convention and professional day); Nov. 25-27 (Thanksgiving holiday) and Dec. 23-Jan.1 (winter holidays, schools close at regular time Tuesday, Dec. 22, and reopen Monday, Jan. 4). The full 2009-2010 calendar is available at the Board of Education Office and on line at www.wcboe.org; look under Links on the home page.

Even though school is not yet in session, there are a number of important upcoming events in Wicomico County Public Schools.

The 2nd Annual School Readiness Fair will take place from 4-7 p.m. Friday, July 31, at Pemberton Elementary. Children ages 0-5 and their parents/guardians are invited to get ready for the upcoming school year with activities, information, vendors and Buster the Bus. 410-677-4580.

Community awareness meetings on the newly revised Code of Conduct and the new Bullying Policy will take place at multiple locations Aug. 11-13, with a makeup session on Aug. 20. School system staff will review the revised Code of Conduct that will be in effect with the new school year for secondary students and for elementary students. Please contact your studentžs school for more information.

For questions about the school system, please send your question to question@wcboe.org.

For comments about Wicomico County Public Schools, please send to: comments@wcboe.org.

For information, please call your studentžs school or call the Board of Education Office at 410-677-4400.

August Community Awareness Meetings - Code of Conduct and Bullying Policy

Wicomico County Board of Education — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Parents, students, community members, and school staff are invited to participate in one of the community awareness meetings scheduled for August 11 - 13. These meetings will introduce participants to the revised and updated Code of Conduct as well as the Wicomico County Board of Education's Bullying Policy. Click here to see the schedule of meetings. Please come to learn how the schools, families and community can partner to benefit our children.

NAACP Back to School Rally - August 6, 2 - 4 pm

Wicomico County Board of Education — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Families of Wicomico County school students may get needed school supplies at the 4th Annual NAACP Back to School Rally on Thursday August 6, 2 - 4 pm. The rally will be held at the Westside Salvation Army Richard Hazel Youth Center. Refreshments will be served. Entertainment is by the Prince Street and Bennett Middle School Steppers. See below for more information.

NEWS RELEASE FOURTH ANNUAL NAACP BACK-TO-SCHOOL RALLY On August 6 from 2:00 to 4:00 P.M. the Wicomico County NAACP will present its Fourth Annual Back-to-School Rally at the Westside Salvation Army Richard Hazel Youth Center, 429 North Lake Park Drive in Salisbury. Rev. Mark Thompson will be the Master of Ceremonies for a program including an inspirational presentation by award winning teacher Aaron Deal. The Prince Street Elementary and Bennett Middle Step Team under the leadership of Tana Ellis will provide entertainment. Sherman, the Shorebirds mascot will also be on hand to greet the three hundred school children from grades kindergarten through eighth grade who will be encouraged to begin the school with a commitment to attend classes and succeed in all their course work and activities. Bags of school supplies will be given to each of the students as material incentives to be ready and prepared for another step on their way to become educated and responsible members of society. After the program and before the school supplies are distributed refreshments of hot dogs, chips, and beverages will be served to the school children. Civic officials and community leaders have been invited to be present as testimony of their support for the children's success as they go back to school for the 2009-2010 academic year. Contributing sponsors are the Westside Salvation Army, Pepsi-Cola Bottling of Salisbury, Food Lion, Giant Food Stores, Westside Revitalization Partnership and the Mental Health Association of the Lower Shore. FOR INFORMATION CONTACT: MARY ASHANTI (410-543-4187), PRESIDENT WICOMICO COUNTY BRANCH NAACP

School Supply Lists for the 2009 - 2010 School Year for PreK to 5th Grade Students Available Online

Wicomico County Board of Education — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Parents of PreK to 5th grade students can begin to gather needed supplies for the upcoming school year. School staff have created primary and intermediate lists (available in English and Spanish). They are available for download from the Parents Page for a full listing of supplies needed in the classroom.

Wicomico Students Continue to Improve on MSA in 2009 Testing

Wicomico County Board of Education — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Wicomico County students continued to show improved math and reading skills as measured by the Maryland School Assessment (MSA) in 2009, though as in other years, challenges remain in closing achievement gaps and in enabling all students to continue to improve and perform at a higher level.

…Wicomico Countyžs schools, teachers and students will find much to celebrate in the 2009 MSA results,‚ Superintendent of Schools Dr. John Fredericksen said. All Wicomico County elementary schools made adequate yearly progress (AYP), as measured by the MSA testing.

Wicomico made gains overall in the percentage of students at the proficient or advanced level on the 2009 Math MSA in grades 3, 4, 5, 7 and 8. In reading in 2009, Wicomico recorded overall gains in the percentage of students scoring at the proficient or advanced levels in grades 3, 5, 6, 7 and 8.

Significant increases - defined as gains of 5 percentage points or more - were made in the overall percentage of students at the proficient level on the 5th- and 7th-grade Reading MSA and the Math MSA for grades 6 and 7.

At the middle school level, Salisbury Middle made AYP in 2009, setting the school up to move out of improvement in 2010 if its students make AYP for the second consecutive year.

However, Wicomico Middle remains a focused developing school. Subgroups at the school that did not meet AYP in 2008 did meet it this year, but an additional subgroup (Math FARMS, or students qualifying for Free and Reduced Meals) did not make AYP, so the school will continue in improvement status.

…We are pleased with the continued progress in student MSA scores, and attentive to areas where improvement is still needed,‚ Dr. Fredericksen said.

Maryland uses MSA and HSA data to meet federal No Child Left Behind (NCLB) testing requirements. Under NCLB goals, all students must score at proficient levels on state tests by 2014. The MSAs in Math and Reading are taken each spring by students in grades 3 - 8 and 10. (For students in grade 10, the HSA (High School Assessment) English exam fulfills the requirement for reading and the HSA Algebra exam satisfies the math requirement.)

Schools must improve not only in their overall scores, but in subgroups of students including African-Americans and other ethnicities, students receiving special education services, English Language Learners, and students qualifying for Free and Reduced Meals. The school system and its schools will analyze MSA results at all levels - county, school, classroom and student - to evaluate the effectiveness of the instructional program and to work toward the school system's goal of "Success - Every Student, Every Day."

Schools have already mailed out home reports showing each student's MSA results. Statewide, system, and local school MSA and AYP data will be‚ available on the Maryland State Department of Education's‚ report card Web site, www.mdreportcard.org.

Among the other strengths seen in the 2009 testing:

The African-American subgroup made gains in Reading MSA for all grades and significant increases were made in grades 5, 6, and 8.

‚·The African-American subgroup made gains in Math MSA for grades 3, 4, and 5 and significant increases were made in grade 7 and 8.

The percent of Special Education students scoring at the proficient/adv. level in Reading MSA increased in grades 6 and significantly increased in grades 3, 5, 7, and 8.

‚·The percent of Special Education students scoring at the proficient/adv. level in Math MSA increased in grades 5, 6, and 8 and significantly increased in grade 3.

‚·The FARMS (Free and Reduced Meals) subgroup made Reading MSA gains in grades 3 and 5 and significantly increased in grades 6, 7, and 8.

‚·The FARMS subgroup made Math MSA gains in grades 3, 4, and 5 and significantly increased in grades 7 and 8.

Other opportunities for improvement include:

As students advance through grade levels after grade 4 the percentage of students at the proficient/adv. level on the Math MSA decreases each year. Although some achievement gap reductions were made between 2008 and 2009 in both Reading and Math, significant gaps continue between African-American/White, FARM/Non-FARM, and Special Education/Non-Special Education students at all grade levels. A significant gender gap continues in Reading in grades 3-8 with females consistently outperforming males. Although gains were made in both Reading and Math MSA, Wicomico continues to perform below the state average at most grade levels.

Dr. Margo Handy, Assistant Superintendent of Instruction and Student Services, said that at Salisbury Middle, which made AYP in 2009, …The school has supported students in improving the skills tested by MSA through reading and math intervention, focus days for thinking and problem solving, author visits to stimulate interest in writing, reading activities, and tutoring.‚

…At Wicomico Middle, the school will continue to reinforce the learning going on in every classroom through professional development, sharing of best practices, peer visits and instructional walk-throughs, administrative support from the school and Central Office, data analysis, putting into practice strategies learned through PBIS and the National Network of Partnership Schools, increased special education teacher time with students, and greater access to instructional technology,‚ Dr. Handy said.

For all schools, "We will be looking at the details within the test results to see what has been successful, and what could be done differently to help all students improve,‚ Dr. Fredericksen said.

Wicomico School System Hosts 2nd annual School Readiness Fair Friday, July 31

Wicomico County Board of Education — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Families with children ages 0-5 can learn more about early childhood education and expectations July 31 at the 2nd Annual School Readiness Fair, put on by the Wicomico County Public Schools.The School Readiness Fair, a cooperative effort by the Wicomico County Board of Education and the Judy Center Partnership, will take place from 4-7 p.m. Friday, July 31, at Pemberton Elementary. This free event for young children and their families will showcase the many aspects of early childhood education and services available in the community, and will help parents and guardians ensure that their child is ready to get a good start on school."You can't wait anymore for children to enter prekindergarten or kindergarten to begin the schooling process. Preparation for school and life must begin early, and parents and other caregivers have to help‚ children to have all the information they need to ensure a successful beginning," said Sandra Drummond, supervisor of early childhood programs. Children will have the opportunity to meet Buster the School Bus, who will guide them through the basics of school bus safety. They'll also get to board a school bus and talk with the driver. Inside the School Readiness Fair, they'll be able to meet principals and assistant principals from Wicomico elementary schools, and pick up free learning materials to take home.

Parents will be able to visit tables with information on child care centers, child care providers, the Lower Shore Child Care Resource Center, Head Start, the Judy Center (serving children in the Beaver Run and Pemberton school districts), Wicomico County Library and the Wicomico County Health Department, which will have information on programs and immunizations.‚

Families who have not registered for prekindergarten or kindergarten will have the chance to do‚ so.‚ Door prizes,‚ dinner, crafts will also be provided.‚ Participants in this year's fair will be treated to a performance by the school system's band, the Edge-ucators, featuring Superintendent of Schools Dr. John Fredericksen and other school system employees.‚

Community agencies that would like to participate in the event should contact Sandra Drummond to register at 410-677-4580.‚ To ensure that materials are in adequate supply, families wishing to attend the event should also contact Drummond at this number to sign up.

Notes from the July 14 Meeting of the Wicomico County Board of Education

Wicomico County Board of Education — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Notes from the July 14 Meeting of the Wicomico County Board of Education

The Wicomico County Board of Education at its July 14 monthly meeting reorganized (as required annually by COMAR) and elected officers for the 2009-10 year, with Mark S. Thompson now serving as president and L. Michelle Wright serving as vice president.

…We are very capable of handling any challenge that comes before us, and wežre looking forward to a great school year,‚ Thompson said.

Board members thanked outgoing President Robin H. Holloway for her leadership over the past three years. Hollowayžs term as a Board member has two years remaining.

"Hopefully Mark and I can continue the progress that that she (Holloway) has led us in through the past three years as president and eight years on the Board,‚ Wright said.

…I appreciate being able to serve,‚ Holloway said. …We have a lot to celebrate here in Wicomico Schools and Ižm happy to be a part of that.‚

The Wicomico County Board of Education is currently awaiting word from Maryland Gov. Martin OžMalleyžs office on the appointment of two new Board members.

During the July 14 meeting, the Board also:

Heard from Superintendent of Schools Dr. John Fredericksen, in his monthly Superintendentžs Report, that:

The school system is waiting to hear from the Maryland Attorney Generalžs Office concerning the maintenance of effort arrangement with Wicomico County. The process of bringing federal stimulus dollars to Wicomico Schools is progressing well. A committee studying the issue of whether to change the minimum grade point average (GPA) requirement for participation in extracurricular activities is looking hard at raising the minimum GPA from 1.6 to 2.0. Wicomico may look at the method used in Dorchester County, where students with a GPA below 2.0 can participate if they also receive tutoring (1 hour of tutoring for a 1.9 GPA, 2 hours for 1.8 GPA, etc.). There will be ample opportunity for public comment on any proposed change before the Board holds a final vote. Some 45 rising seniors (out of 200 still needing to meet the HSA graduation requirement to graduate in 2010) are participating in Bridge project training this summer. …I think the students are now actually believing that this requirement is a reality, and theyžre now starting to comply with it,‚ Fredericksen said. More than 1,000 elementary, middle and high school students are engaged in summer learning through various programs going on now in Wicomico Schools. Staff is gathering quotes for conducting a school climate survey. The Aspen Management Group, which is working with the Local Management Board to help young people who may be having gang involvement, is looking to collaborate with the school system on the project, one which could also be an option for some students at Choices. Many school system administrators, principals, assistant principals and others will be engaged in learning next week through a two-day Leadership Academy, a one-day discipline summit, and a one-day student services summit. The meetings will take place at Salisbury University. Meetings to introduce the community to the revised Code of Conduct will take place Aug. 11-13 and Aug. 20. The James M. Bennett High School project is going well. The monthly Superintendentžs Webcast may be viewed at www.wcboe.org, with a printed text also available at the web site. A copy of the text can also be mailed out; call 410-677-4400.

School Bus Contract

Approved the request of bus contractor R. Jeffrey Holloway to add his wife, Leah Holloway, to the contract for Bus 57.

Table of rates

Received for information a proposed table of rates for fiscal year 2010. The proposed table of rates includes recommendations for changes in the hourly rate and mileage rate; the per vehicle allotment is still being studied. A number of bus contractors in attendance requested that the Board approve a new table of rates as soon as possible so they know what compensation they will receive in fy2010, a key piece of financial information for contractors seeking to borrow money to purchase new buses. The Board will hold a work session on the topic in the near future.

Reports

Approved the monthly Personnel Matters report for certificated employees and the Budget Transfers for the month of July, and received for information the monthly Personnel Matters report for classified employees and the updated grants report.

Appointment

Appointed William Cain, the assistant superintendent for administrative services, to complete the second year of a two-year term on the Maryland Association of Boards of Educationžs Legal Services Association board of directors. He will complete the term begun by Charlie Bounds, who retired June 30.

Bid Awards

Awarded the contract for miscellaneous painting to R&R Coatings Inc. as the primary company and Pro-Coat LLC as the secondary company.

Awarded the bid for a four-year lease for computers, computer peripherals, interactive whiteboards and point-of-service touch screen terminals to M&T Bank as the low responsive and responsible bidder.

Information Sessions Scheduled Monday, Aug. 3 and Tuesday, Aug. ...

Wicomico County Board of Education — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0500

The Wicomico County Adult Learning Center will have Information Sessions for daytime and evening GED classes for the Fall Term on Monday, Aug. 3 and Tuesday, Aug. 4, from 9-10 a.m. and from 6-7 p.m. Fall classes are scheduled to begin in September.The Center is located at 224 Phillip Morris Drive, Suite 300 (Philmore Commons) in Salisbury. If you are interested in attending an Information Session, call Valerie Vandever at 410-749-3217 to register by Thursday, July 30, between the hours of 9 a.m.-noon, Monday through Thursday.

ESL Registration at the Wicomico Adult Learning Center Aug. 6; Classes Begin Sept. 8

Wicomico County Board of Education — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0500

The Wicomico Adult Learning Center will hold ESL‚ Fall Term Registration from 10 a.m.-noon and from 6-8 p.m. on Thursday, August 6, 2009. Prospective students must attend registration in order to be enrolled into a class. Classes will begin Tuesday, Sept. 8.

The ESL Program for Fall Term will run from Sept. 8 to Dec. 9 at the Adult Learning Center at 224 Phillip Morris Drive, Suite 300 (Philmore Commons) in Salisbury. For further information, call Wicomico Adult Learning Center at 410-749-3217 or stop by the center Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m.-noon.

SkillsUSA Students from Parkside High CTE Earn Top Honors at National SkillsUSA Competition

Wicomico County Board of Education — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Six students trained and educated in the Parkside High School Department of Career & Technology Education recently won top national honors at SkillsUSAžs 45th annual‚ National Leadership and Skills Conference and Competition, a showcase for career and technology education students.

…We are very proud of our students and our graduates for their outstanding performance at the national SkillsUSA competition,‚ said Dr. John Fredericksen, superintendent of schools. …This is a testament to the dedication and skill of these students, and to the outstanding programs and instructors at the Parkside High School Department of Career & Technology Education.‚

This was the first year in which Wicomico sent a welding team to compete at nationals, and the three-man welding team of Dan Chance, John Winn and Matt Fletcher did an outstanding job, winning the silver medal in Welding Fabrication. The team members worked together against the clock to follow a blueprint to fabricate a stand-up toolbox. Chance and Winn are 2009 graduates of Parkside High, and Fletcher is a 2009 graduate of Mardela High.

For the third straight year, a Parkside CTE Electronics program student brought home the national SkillsUSA gold medal. (Alex Stevenson, 2008 Parkside graduate, won the gold medal in 2007 and 2008.) This year, the gold-medal winner in Electronics Technology was 2008 Parkside graduate Spencer Crockett, a student at Wor-Wic Community College who competed at the post-secondary level with Parksidežs SkillsUSA chapter. It was a strong win: Crockett was 53 points (out of 1,000 points) ahead of the second-place finisher, and more than 200 points ahead of any other finisher.

Parkside Highžs Tyler Moskov also performed well in the Electronics Technology contest, placing fifth in a field of 36 state champions and coming home the highest-scoring junior in the Electronics Technology contest. As a senior this year, he will have the opportunity to compete in SkillsUSA again.

The outstanding showing by Wicomico students continued in the Electronics Applications competition, where 2009 Parkside High graduate Jung An finished second in the nation, earning a silver medal. He finished just 5 points (out of 1,000) behind the gold-medal winner. He will attend Salisbury University this fall, and plans to transfer to the University of Maryland College Park after one year for the engineering program.

This yearžs SkillsUSA national conference, held June 21-26 in Kansas City, also brought special recognition for Jim Maynard, the Parkside SkillsUSA advisor. He was called on stage for recognition as one of the top 4 SkillsUSA advisors in the nation.

…Jim is not the type of guy to toot his own horn, but I sincerely give Mr. Maynard credit for keeping myself and all the students informed as to the requirements of each competition,‚ said Dave Miles, electronics instructor at Parkside CTE. …He constantly went above and beyond as he reminded us of what to bring, where to be, what to do and what not to do. He also drove his own vehicle with equipment for the competition to Kansas City, saving the county money in shipping costs and airfare. He is a true professional who fully deserved this recognition.‚

The annual SkillsUSA competition and conference hosted more than 5,000 competitors from the United States, Guam and Puerto Rico. The results prove that Wicomico students and the career and technology programs at Parkside are some of the best in the country ‚“ good news for the community, which benefits from the skills of many CTE students, said Bryan Ashby, supervisor of career and technology education.

Nationally, SkillsUSA serves more than 300,000 CTE students and professional members enrolled in trade, technical, and skilled-service occupations, including the allied health professions.

July Edition of "Working Together for Children" Now Airing on PAC 14

Wicomico County Board of Education — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0500

The July edition of "Working Together for Children" will debut at 6:30 p.m. tonight (Thursday) on PAC 14 (Comcast Channel 14). It will also air at noon Saturday.This month's one-hour show features an interview on the fiscal year 2010 budget, with Superintendent of Schools Dr. John Fredericksen and Board President Robin Holloway. The show previews the July 31 School Readiness Fair, and looks back on the many award-winning students, teachers, schools, administrators, parents and community partners who were honored at the June 2 Awards & Recognitions Night. "Working Together for Children" airs regularly at 6:30 p.m. Thursdays and noon Saturdays; visit pac14.org for additional times. PAC 14 also streams its programming live on its web site at www.pac14.org, so viewers can visit the web site to "tune in" on line when the show is on the air. DVDs of many past "Working Together" shows are now available at the Wicomico Public Library."Working Together for Children" is produced monthly by the Wicomico County Public Schools for broadcast to the community on PAC 14. "Working Together" was honored with a 2007 Hometown Video Award from the Alliance for Community Media in the Educational Profile category (nonprofessional production). For further information or to give feedback, please contact Dr. Faye Wilson at 410-677-4529 or fwilson@wcboe.org. ‚

New Fiscal Year Begins July 1 for Wicomico County Board of Education and Wicomico County Public ...

Wicomico County Board of Education — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Wicomico's two new assistant superintendents, Margo Handy, assistant superintendent of instruction and student services, and William Cain, assistant superintendent for administrative services, began their new duties Wednesday, July 1, with the start of the new fiscal year. A number of other administrators are also taking on new responsibilities in new places or posts effective July 1. As the fiscal year 2009-2010 begins, the Board and school system are waiting on Maryland's Attorney General to rule on the financing plan that is part of the budget. Superintendent of Schools Dr. John Fredericksen said the Maryland Senate Budget and Tax Committee heard all about it in a public hearing last week. The financing plan is very similar to a plan used by another county. The money being provided would have otherwise been returned to Wicomico County and would have been held in their fund balances for just such a purpose. Some of the additional money will be used to fund the capital projects previously planned for the School Construction Savings Plan fund, keeping the list intact and on schedule. "While it would be nice to have the entire boost of the additional funds for increased enrollment and poverty, we are all in this extremely challenging economic situation together. We have a responsibility to share the load of keeping our community services afloat," Dr. Fredericksen said.

News from the June 30 Special Meeting of the Wicomico County Board of Education

Wicomico County Board of Education — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0500

The Wicomico County Board of Education at a special meeting Tuesday, June 30: Negotiated Agreements Ratified annual updates to the negotiated agreements with the Wicomico County Education Association (Unit I), Association of Public School Administrators and Supervisors (Unit II), and the Wicomico Education Support Personnel Association (Units III and IV), for the 2009-2010 school year. Updated Monthly Reports Approved the latest update to the June Personnel Matters report for certificated employees, and received for information an update to the June Personnel Matters report for classified employees.

Maryland Gifted and Talented Students to Engage in Historical Research, Environmental Research ...

Wicomico County Board of Education — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0500

The Center for Environmental and Historical Research on the Lower Eastern Shore will allow students to explore the past while conducting research into the lives of former residents of Pemberton Hall, an 18th-century plantation. Students entering grades 5-7 will conduct historical research June 29-July 3 to get insights into the daily lives of real people who lived in our area. Then, from July 6-17, students in grades 4-8 will conduct environmental research to investigate plants and animals of the Wicomico River and assess the local impact on the Chesapeake Bay Watershed area. The 2009 Maryland Summer Centers Program is sponsored by the Maryland State Department of Education and funded by the Maryland General Assembly. The Maryland Summer Centers Program, in partnership with public and nonpublic agencies, provides Marylandžs diverse gifted and talented student population with advanced, rigorous, experiential learning opportunities that nurture these studentsž talents and abilities within unique learning environments. WHEN: Historical Research: June 29 ‚“ July 3, 2009 / 9:00 a.m. ‚“ 4:00 p.m. - Entering Grades: 5-7 Environmental Research: July 6 - 17, 2009 / 9:00 a.m. ‚“ 4:00 p.m. - Entering Grades: 4-8 WHERE: North Salisbury Elementary School, 1213 Emerson Avenue, Salisbury, Maryland and Pemberton Hall, Pemberton Historical Park, Salisbury Media contact: Susan Bounds, 410-677-5807

Wicomico Hosts Maryland Governor's Academy for Biology at Wicomico High School June 29-July 9

Wicomico County Board of Education — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Teachers become the students over the next two weeks as they attend the 2009-2010 Governor's Academy for Biology, sponsored by the Maryland State Department of Education. This Governor's Academy is for Maryland public school teachers and focuses on meeting the challenges of having all students pass the High School Assessment (HSA) in biology. The Academy will help teachers deepen their knowledge of the concepts of biology, strengthen their skills for instruction, examine ways to raise the achievement of their students in biology, increase teacher awareness of the relevance of biology in real-life situations, and create a network of teachers committed to promoting excellence in science education throughout Maryland. Attendees include Maryland public school teachers of biology and teachers assisting in the instruction of biology including special education teachers, classroom resource teachers, English Language Learner teachers, and instructional assistants. Master teachers from local school systems and specialists from the Maryland State Department of Education will deliver the program. When: June 29 July 2 and July 6-9, 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Where: Wicomico High School, Salisbury